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SB 1653

Claims Commission, Tennessee - As introduced, increases the amount for which the state may be liable for damages in causes of action arising in tort from $300,000 per claimant to $500,000 per claimant and from $1 million per occurrence to $1.5 million per occurrence. - Amends TCA Title 9, Chapter 8 and Title 29.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Todd Gardenhire

Tennessee bill raises state liability caps for tort claims from $300K/$1M to $500K/$1.5M per claimant and occurrence, increasing compensation available to citizens injured by state actions.

Placed on Senate Finance, Ways, and Means Committee calendar for 4/20/2026
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Bill Summary · SB 1653

Legislative bill overview

SB 1653 increases Tennessee's sovereign immunity liability caps for tort claims against the state. Specifically, it raises the per-claimant damage limit from $300,000 to $500,000 and the per-occurrence cap from $1 million to $1.5 million. These changes apply to civil lawsuits against the state government.

Why is this important

Sovereign immunity caps directly affect citizens' ability to recover damages when harmed by state negligence or wrongdoing. Higher caps mean injured parties can potentially receive greater compensation, but also increase financial liability and insurance costs for the state—ultimately affecting taxpayers and the state budget.

Potential points of contention

  • Budget impact: The increased liability exposure could require higher insurance premiums or larger claims payouts, potentially diverting funds from other state services or requiring budget adjustments
  • Fairness to tort victims: Some argue current caps are inadequate for serious injuries (like permanent disability or death), while others contend they're necessary to protect state finances and prevent frivolous litigation
  • Comparison to private sector: The bill creates different liability standards than private defendants face, raising questions about whether government should have special protections unavailable to businesses and individuals

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

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