Tennessee House Bill HB1306

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/25
• Refer: 2/12/25
• Refer: 3/5/25
• Refer: 3/19/25
• Refer: 4/2/25
• Refer: 4/8/25
• Engrossed: 4/14/25
• Enrolled: 4/16/25
• Passed: 5/2/25
• Chaptered: 5/8/25

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 7, Chapter 53; Title 9, Chapter 21 and Title 9, Chapter 23, relative to economic development.

Impact

The impact of HB1306 on state laws is significant, as it modifies provisions related to economic development and local government authority. The legislation aims to facilitate the redevelopment of brownfield sites, allowing for these areas to be repurposed into valuable housing resources. By enabling municipalities to submit economic impact plans, the bill enhances their capabilities to stimulate local economies through housing projects that also accommodate vulnerable demographics. This could potentially reshape local urban landscapes and address housing shortages, particularly in urban areas where land is limited.

Summary

House Bill 1306 focuses on amending various chapters of the Tennessee Code Annotated to enhance economic development, particularly related to housing. This bill introduces provisions to support the construction and rehabilitation of multifamily, single-family, and townhome housing aimed at persons of low to moderate income, elderly residents, and handicapped individuals. By redefining certain aspects of existing laws, the bill seeks to streamline the economic impact planning process for housing development projects, allowing municipalities to approve plans and amendments without the need for additional public hearings in certain cases. This is intended to expedite the growth of housing opportunities in the state.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB1306 appears to be generally positive, particularly among proponents who view it as a necessary step towards addressing housing needs and promoting local economic development. Supporters argue that the measure will lead to increased investment in housing and benefit communities by providing affordable options for residents. Nonetheless, there are concerns among some stakeholders regarding potential overreach in local governance, as the enhanced powers granted to municipalities might undermine certain regulatory safeguards in the planning process.

Contention

Notably, the bill has sparked debate about the balance between local control and state oversight. While proponents praise the revisions as a solution to housing shortages, critics caution that not requiring additional public hearings for amended plans could limit transparency and community input. The changes to how economic impact plans are approved may raise questions about the long-term implications for community development priorities, particularly in regions with specific and diverse housing needs.