WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 37

Fees - As introduced, increases from $20 to $300 the annual report filing fee for for-profit business corporations and nonprofit corporations; changes from $50 per member to a $100 initial filing fee, and from $50 per member totaling not less than $300 or not more than $3,000, to a $300 annual report filing fee for limited liability corporations. - Amends TCA Title 48.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Heidi Campbell

Withdrawn Tennessee bill would have tripled corporate annual filing fees and restructured LLC fees into flat charges, raising business compliance costs $280-$300 yearly.

Withdrawn.
#fees
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 37

Legislative bill overview

SB 37 significantly increases annual filing fees for business entities in Tennessee, raising fees for for-profit corporations from $20 to $300 annually, and restructuring LLC fees from a per-member model (capped $300-$3,000) to a flat $300 annual fee with a $100 initial filing charge. The bill amends Tennessee Code Annotated Title 48, which governs business entity regulations.

Why is this important

These fee increases directly impact small business formation and compliance costs. For sole proprietors operating as LLCs or small corporations, the changes could increase annual operating expenses by $280-$300, potentially affecting business viability and competitiveness. The fees fund state regulatory operations, so the increases reflect either budget pressures or shifting cost allocation to the business community.

Potential points of contention

  • Disproportionate impact on small businesses: Smaller entities see proportionally larger cost increases than large multi-member LLCs, which could face lower per-entity costs under the new flat fee structure
  • Competitiveness with neighboring states: Higher filing and maintenance fees may incentivize business formation in states with lower regulatory costs, affecting Tennessee's economic development
  • Timing and notice: The substantial increase ($20 to $300 is a 1,400% jump) may strain businesses unprepared for sudden cost changes, though the bill has been withdrawn so implementation is uncertain

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

Sign in to ask a question.