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SB 1301

Safety, Dept. of - As enacted, specifies that the Tennessee Advanced Communications Network is the division of the department of safety that operates, maintains, and oversees the statewide P25 interoperable communications system; authorizes the department to collect and use fees and assessments for the improvement of the system in addition to collection and use of such fees for the system's use and maintenance. - Amends TCA Section 4-3-2018.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026)

Tennessee establishes TACN as the authority for statewide emergency communications and authorizes expanded fee collection for system maintenance and modernization improvements.

Pub. Ch. 129
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Bill Summary · SB 1301

Legislative bill overview

SB 1301 formally establishes the Tennessee Advanced Communications Network (TACN) as the division within the Department of Safety responsible for operating Tennessee's statewide P25 interoperable communications system. The bill expands the department's authority to collect fees and assessments not only for system maintenance and use, but also for system improvements.

Why is this important

P25 systems enable emergency responders (police, fire, EMS) across jurisdictions to communicate seamlessly during emergencies and day-to-day operations. By clarifying governance and expanding fee authority, the bill provides dedicated funding mechanisms to modernize and improve critical public safety infrastructure that affects emergency response capabilities statewide.

Potential points of contention

  • Fee burden on local agencies: Expanded fee authority may increase costs for county and municipal emergency services, potentially straining budgets of smaller jurisdictions
  • Accountability and oversight: Broader authority to collect and spend fees for "improvements" could lack sufficient legislative oversight if spending priorities aren't clearly defined
  • Cost transparency: The bill doesn't specify fee structures or caps, raising questions about how much agencies may be assessed and whether costs will be predictable

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

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