The Finance, Ways, and Means Subcommittee of the Tennessee State Legislature convened on April 14, 2025, to discuss a comprehensive agenda featuring 57 bills. The meeting commenced with the establishment of a quorum, followed by procedural announcements regarding the absence of certain calendars, specifically the behind-the-budget and tasker calendars, which will be addressed once the budget is passed.

The first bill discussed was House Bill 649, presented by Speaker Pro Tem Marsh, which aims to reinstate a portion of a real estate transfer tax previously removed from counties. The proposed amendment, which passed unanimously, restricts the use of the funds to infrastructure projects. However, due to a significant fiscal note of $144 million, the bill was set aside for future consideration.

Subsequent bills, including House Bill 793 and House Bill 1299, both sponsored by Leader Lambert, were similarly placed behind the budget due to their fiscal impacts. House Bill 1232, also by Leader Lambert, aimed at combating fentanyl, was treated the same way.

Chairman Balsow introduced House Bill 99, which seeks to strengthen laws against unlawful photography. Despite its importance, it too was deferred for budgetary reasons. Chairman Farmer's House Bill 1125, which addresses compensation for teachers who pass away, and House Bill 1128, allowing constables to become post-certified, were both moved to full finance after passing without objection.

The meeting continued with various bills being discussed, including House Bill 138, which establishes a grant fund for career and technical education, and House Bill 1325, a farmland preservation initiative. Both bills were placed behind the budget due to their fiscal implications.

A notable discussion arose around House Bill 923, which prohibits state departments from maintaining offices that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. This bill sparked extensive debate regarding its potential impact on hiring practices and community representation, ultimately passing with a vote of 11 to 0.

The meeting concluded with several bills being moved to full finance, including those addressing school safety, veterans' tax relief, and the establishment of a statewide school safety alert grant program. The subcommittee's structured approach ensured that each bill was thoroughly reviewed, with fiscal impacts carefully considered before proceeding.

Overall, the subcommittee's discussions highlighted the ongoing efforts to address fiscal responsibility while navigating complex legislative issues impacting various sectors across Tennessee.