The Tennessee General Assembly has convened for the 2026 legislative session. As in prior years, a wide range of legislation is expected that could impact cities and towns across the state. While it is still early in the session, municipal officials should be aware of several general topic areas that frequently arise and have local government implications. Legislation impacting municipalities often addresses issues such as municipal authority, public safety, zoning and land use, taxation and revenue, open meetings and public records, and municipal courts. 

It is important to keep in mind that legislation often changes significantly as it moves through the general assembly. Amendments, sometimes adopted late in the process, can substantially alter a bill’s scope or its impact on municipalities. As a result, the full effect of proposed legislation may not be clear from its original language.

MTAS will continue to monitor legislative activity throughout the session and track bills that may affect Tennessee municipalities so that we can provide guidance on new and amended laws after the legislative session. Be on the lookout for information regarding MTAS Legal Consultant John Waddell’s 2026 Legislative Updates training session. This post-session training covers laws passed during session impacting Tennessee’s cities and towns. In the meantime, please make sure you are con with the Tennessee Municipal League for current information from this year’s legislative session.