On February 5, 2025, the Tennessee State Legislature introduced Senate Bill 967, a legislative measure aimed at amending various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated related to rental property regulations. The bill, sponsored by Senator Southerland, seeks to extend the notice period required for landlords to inform tenants of lease terminations or changes from the current thirty days to forty-five days.

The primary purpose of SB 967 is to provide tenants with additional time to prepare for potential relocations or adjustments to their rental agreements. This change is positioned as a means to enhance tenant rights and promote stability in rental housing, addressing concerns raised by tenant advocacy groups regarding the short notice periods that can lead to sudden displacement.

During discussions surrounding the bill, proponents emphasized the need for increased tenant protections in a rapidly changing housing market, where many individuals and families face challenges in securing affordable housing. Opponents, however, raised concerns about the potential impact on landlords, arguing that the extended notice period could complicate property management and reduce flexibility for landlords in responding to market conditions.

The bill's implications extend beyond the immediate changes to notice periods. If passed, SB 967 could signal a shift in Tennessee's approach to rental property regulations, potentially influencing future legislation aimed at balancing the interests of tenants and landlords. Experts suggest that this bill may set a precedent for further reforms in tenant protections, especially as housing affordability continues to be a pressing issue in the state.

As the legislative process unfolds, stakeholders from both sides of the rental housing debate are expected to engage in further discussions and negotiations. The bill is set to take effect upon becoming law, applying to all rental agreements entered into, amended, or renewed thereafter. The outcome of SB 967 will be closely monitored as it could have lasting effects on the rental landscape in Tennessee.