Housing Policy Updates

 On April 16, both chambers passed a $58 billion state budget, the largest in Tennessee history—reflecting continued revenue strength and the state’s traditionally conservative fiscal approach. The plan includes approximately $32 billion in state general fund revenues and roughly $26 billion in federal and other fund revenues, while maintaining reserve levels near historic highs through continued support of the Rainy-Day Fund.

Funding priorities remain consistent with recent years, with significant investments in infrastructure and transportation, including long-term commitments to road and rural projects. The budget also provides additional support for education through K-12 formula growth and higher education capital improvements, alongside targeted funding for public safety and continued economic development initiatives focused on job creation and business recruitment.  Below are links to more detailed breakdowns of Tennessee's 2026-2027 budget expenditures.

While the topline figures are finalized, implementation will continue to evolve in the coming months as agencies develop rules, allocate program funding, and operationalize new appropriations.

As legislative activity concludes, attention is increasingly shifting toward the 2026 election cycle, which will play a significant role in shaping the state’s policy direction in the coming years. All 99 seats in the Tennessee House of Representatives and approximately half of the State Senate will be on the ballot, positioning this as a consequential election for legislative leadership and committee structure heading into 2027.

Key election dates include August 6, 2026, for the state primary and county general elections, and November 3, 2026, for the general election. Voter registration deadlines and early voting periods will fall in early to mid-October.

In addition to candidate races, voters will consider three proposed constitutional amendments referred by the General Assembly. These measures, which have passed two consecutive legislatures as required under Tennessee law, represent longer-term policy questions with potential structural implications.

The proposed amendments address three primary areas: 

• Bail Reform Amendment – Expands judicial authority to deny bail for certain serious offenses, including select violent crimes      
• State Property Tax Prohibition Amendment – Prohibits the state from ever enacting a property tax 
• Crime Victims’ Rights Amendment (Marsy’s Law Expansion) – Expands and constitutionalizes rights for crime victims, including notification and participation in proceedings

To be adopted, each amendment must receive not only a majority of votes cast on the measure itself, but also a majority relative to the total votes cast in the gubernatorial election.  As a result, overall voter turnout will play a significant role in determining their outcome.

• April 16th – Both Chambers Presented & Passed the Budget
• April 23rd – Adjournment Date “Sine Die”
• August 6, 2026 – State Primary Elections
• November 3, 2026 – General Election

• Administrative Budget
• Administration Budget Amendments