The Tennessee House of Representatives convened on April 17, 2025, to discuss several key legislative items, including the passage of Senate Bill 1388, which aims to enhance vocational services for individuals with disabilities, and Senate Bill 547, focused on public safety funding for district attorneys.

The session began with the approval of the consent calendar, which passed without objection. Following this, Chairman Vaughn introduced Senate Bill 1388, which seeks to improve accountability measures for vendors serving in state facilities and increase employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities. The bill allows eligible individuals to operate vending facilities on public properties, granting them priority under state and federal law. Vaughn emphasized the importance of this legislation in providing more job opportunities for those with disabilities. The bill received support from members, including Representative Pearson, who acknowledged the advocacy of the Tennessee Committee of Blind Vendors.

Senate Bill 1388 was ultimately passed with a vote of 75 in favor, 18 against, and one present, indicating strong bipartisan support for the initiative.

Next, Representative Cochran presented Senate Bill 547, which establishes a public safety fund for district attorneys, replacing a previous fee associated with bad check cases. This new funding mechanism aims to enhance the operational capacity of district attorney offices. During the discussion, members raised questions about the implementation of the fee and its usage, with Cochran clarifying that the fee would require a two-thirds vote from the respective county commissions.

Senate Bill 547 also moved forward without objection, reflecting the House's commitment to supporting public safety initiatives.

Overall, the session highlighted the Tennessee House's focus on improving services for individuals with disabilities and enhancing public safety funding, showcasing a collaborative effort among representatives to address these important issues.