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Bill

HB 275

Sunset Laws - As enacted, extends the Tennessee monuments and memorials commission to June 30, 2029. - Amends TCA Section 4-1-412 and Title 4, Chapter 29.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Justin Lafferty

Tennessee extends its monuments and memorials commission's authority through June 30, 2029, preventing automatic agency dissolution through sunset law reauthorization.

Pub. Ch. 91
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Bill Summary · HB 275

Legislative bill overview

HB 275 extends the sunset date of Tennessee's monuments and memorials commission from its previous expiration date to June 30, 2029. The bill amends the state code to continue the commission's authority and operations for an additional period. This is a routine legislative action that prevents the automatic dissolution of an existing state agency.

Why is this important

Sunset laws require agencies to be periodically reauthorized or they cease to exist, forcing legislatures to actively review their performance and necessity. Without this extension, the monuments and memorials commission would have terminated, halting any ongoing work related to state monuments and memorials management. This extension allows the commission to continue its functions—whether that involves maintaining, evaluating, or overseeing Tennessee's monuments and memorials—without interruption.

Potential points of contention

  • Monuments controversy context: The commission's work involves monuments that may have contested historical significance, particularly Confederate or other divisive memorials, though the bill itself is neutral on these issues
  • Minimal legislative scrutiny: Sunset extensions often pass with little debate, potentially missing opportunities for comprehensive agency review or reform
  • Lack of performance metrics: The bill does not appear to condition the extension on specific performance criteria or require the commission to demonstrate effectiveness

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

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