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Bill

Bill

HB 812

Veterans Services, Dept. of - As introduced, allocates 1 percent of the revenue from sports gaming in this state to the department to be used to support veterans services in this state. - Amends TCA Title 4; Title 49; Title 58; Title 68 and Title 71.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Rush Bricken

Tennessee dedicates 1% of sports gaming revenue to veteran services, creating a dedicated funding stream for programs supporting the state's veteran population.

Assigned to s/c Finance, Ways, and Means Subcommittee
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Bill Summary · HB 812

Legislative bill overview

HB 812 dedicates 1 percent of state revenue generated from sports gaming to Tennessee's Department of Veterans Services for veteran support programs. The bill amends multiple sections of Tennessee code across titles covering taxation, state departments, and public finance to establish this new revenue stream.

Why is this important

This creates a dedicated, recurring funding mechanism for veteran services without requiring annual budget appropriations or general fund dollars. Veterans services funding has historically been competitive within state budgets, so a dedicated revenue source could provide more stable, predictable resources for programs serving the state's veteran population.

Potential points of contention

  • Revenue predictability: Sports gaming revenue fluctuates based on consumer behavior and market conditions, making it an uncertain funding source for essential veteran services that may require stable, consistent support
  • Percentage allocation: Whether 1 percent is an adequate share of gaming revenue, and whether this percentage should be adjusted over time as the gaming market evolves or veteran needs change
  • Fund accountability: Questions about how the dedicated funds will be allocated among different veteran services, what programs qualify, and oversight mechanisms to ensure efficient use of gaming revenues

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

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