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HB 917

Public Property - As enacted, clarifies exception to when a state entity must advertise for leasing space when the entity has requirements that are special and unique. - Amends TCA Section 12-2-114.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Jeremy Faison

Tennessee law now lets state entities skip competitive lease advertising when they claim special, unique space needs.

Pub. Ch. 202
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Bill Summary · HB 917

Legislative bill overview

HB 917 modifies Tennessee's public property leasing law to clarify when state entities can bypass competitive bidding requirements for leasing space. The bill creates an exception allowing state entities with "special and unique" requirements to lease property without mandatory public advertising, amending TCA Section 12-2-114.

Why is this important

This legislation affects how state government procures office and operational space, potentially reducing transparency in real estate transactions. The change could streamline leasing for specialized state operations but may also reduce competitive pricing opportunities and oversight of public spending on rentals.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition ambiguity: The bill doesn't precisely define what constitutes "special and unique" requirements, potentially allowing broad discretion in avoiding competitive bidding
  • Reduced fiscal oversight: Exempting certain leases from public advertising could result in less competitive bidding and potentially higher costs to taxpayers
  • Transparency concerns: The exception reduces public visibility into state real estate decisions, making it harder to track how taxpayer money is spent on rentals

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

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