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HB 2045

Campaigns and Campaign Finance - As introduced, authorizes a candidate or officeholder to expend campaign funds of not more than $12,000 per year for residential security. - Amends TCA Title 2, Chapter 10.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Pat Marsh

Allows Tennessee candidates and officeholders to spend up to $12,000 yearly from campaign funds on residential security expenses.

Placed on cal. Calendar & Rules Committee for 3/12/2026
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Bill Summary · HB 2045

Legislative bill overview

HB 2045 permits Tennessee candidates and officeholders to spend up to $12,000 annually from campaign funds specifically for residential security expenses. This amends state campaign finance law (TCA Title 2, Chapter 10) to create a carve-out from standard campaign fund restrictions.

Why is this important

Campaign finance rules typically restrict how candidates can use donated funds, ensuring they go toward electoral activities. This bill creates a new permissible expense category, potentially affecting how campaign donations are deployed and what security protections elected officials can finance through campaign accounts rather than personal funds.

Potential points of contention

  • Security vs. campaign purpose debate: Critics may argue residential security is a personal expense unrelated to campaigning, while supporters contend threats to officeholders are occupational hazards justifying campaign fund use
  • Equity and access concerns: The $12,000 annual allowance may disproportionately benefit higher-profile candidates facing greater threats, raising fairness questions about unequal security resources
  • Donor intent questions: Campaign contributors may not expect their donations to fund candidate home security, raising transparency and accountability issues about fund usage

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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