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HB 1620

Sunset Laws - As introduced, repeals the defunct Tennessee student assistance corporation, board of directors from the sunset law. - Amends TCA Title 4, Chapter 29 and Title 49, Chapter 4.

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

HB 1620 exempts the Tennessee Student Assistance Corporation from sunset law review requirements, removing mandatory periodic legislative oversight of the agency.

Comp. SB subst.
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Bill Summary · HB 1620

Legislative bill overview

HB 1620 removes the Tennessee Student Assistance Corporation and its board of directors from Tennessee's sunset law provisions. The sunset law typically requires periodic review and reauthorization of state agencies; this bill exempts this particular entity from that requirement by amending Title 4, Chapter 29 and Title 49, Chapter 4 of the Tennessee Code.

Why is this important

Sunset laws serve as accountability mechanisms, forcing periodic legislative review of agencies to ensure they remain necessary and functional. Removing an agency from sunset review eliminates a scheduled opportunity for lawmakers to evaluate its performance, budget, and continued relevance—potentially reducing oversight of an entity that distributes student financial aid.

Potential points of contention

  • Reduced legislative oversight: Removing sunset requirements means the corporation could operate indefinitely without mandatory periodic review, even if it becomes inefficient or unnecessary
  • "Defunct" status clarification: The bill describes the corporation as "defunct," raising questions about why it needs protection from sunset if it's no longer operational, or whether "defunct" means something else legally
  • Accountability mechanism erosion: Each sunset law exemption incrementally weakens the overall sunset system's effectiveness as a government performance-checking tool

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

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