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SB 760

Newspapers and Publications - As enacted, specifies that the website where legal notices must be posted must not require a fee or a subscription for a person to view the website; makes related changes. - Amends TCA Title 1, Chapter 3.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Ken Yager

SB 760 mandates free public access to legal notices online, eliminating paywall and subscription barriers to viewing legally required disclosures.

Comp. became Pub. Ch. 500
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Bill Summary · SB 760

Legislative bill overview

SB 760 requires that websites hosting legal notices must be free and accessible to the public without paywalls or subscription requirements. The bill amends Tennessee's notice publication laws to ensure equal public access to legally required notices.

Why is this important

Legal notices—such as foreclosures, business filings, and court orders—are critical information for affected parties and the public. Restricting these notices behind paid websites could prevent ordinary citizens from accessing information that directly impacts their legal rights and property.

Potential points of contention

  • Newspaper industry impact: Traditionally, newspapers profited from legal notice publication fees; free-access mandates could reduce revenue for local news outlets already facing financial pressures
  • Implementation costs: Government entities and publications may face increased costs to maintain free public-access platforms
  • Definition ambiguity: The bill may need clarification on what constitutes an acceptable "free" platform and whether limited free access (e.g., registration without payment) satisfies the requirement

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

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