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PUBLIC CHAPTER NO. 822
SENATE BILL NO. 1477
By Massey, Campbell
Substituted for: House Bill No. 1751
By Howell, Crawford, Pearson, Renea Jones, Alexander
AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 55, Chapter 4, relative to license plates.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF TENNESSEE:
SECTION 1. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-311 (b)(3), is amended by deleting the
subdivision and substituting instead the following:
(3) The funds produced from the sale of Friends of Sycamore Shoals Historic Area,
Inc. new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the Friends of Sycamore
Shoals Historic Area, Inc., in accordance with § 55-4-301. The funds must be used
exclusively to:
(A) Support and promote the Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park in
Elizabethton, Tennessee;
(8) Support historical projects within Carter County, Tennessee; and
(C) Support charitable nonprofit organizations based in Carter County,
Tennessee, whose primary mission is in one (1) or more of the following categories:
(i) Animal protection and welfare;
(ii) Food banks and food pantries;
(iii) Fire prevention, protection, and control;
(iv) Ambulance and emergency medical transport services; and
(v) After school and summer daycare.
SECTION 2. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-203(c)(7), is amended by adding the
following as a new, appropriately designated subdivision:
( ) Coalmont OHV Park;
SECTION 3. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-330, is amended by adding the
following as a new subsection:
(c)(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon
complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor
vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee
provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a Coalmont OHV Park new specialty
earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by§ 55-4-21 0(c).
(2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (c)
must be designed in consultation with a representative of Coalmont OHV Park, Inc.
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(3) The funds produced from the sale of Coalmont OHV Park new specialty
earmarked license plates must be allocated to Coalmont OHV Park, Inc., in
accordance with § 55-4-301. The funds must be used exclusively for equipment, trail
growth, and maintenance, including maintaining and establishing new cabins and
other amenities at the Coalmont OHV Park.
SECTION 4. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-203(c)(7), is amended by adding the
following as a new, appropriately designated subdivision:
( ) Flatrock Motorsports Park;
SECTION 5. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-330, is amended by adding the
following new subsection:
(f)(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon
complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor
vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee
provided in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a Flatrock Motorsports Park new specialty
earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by§ 55-4-21 0(c).
(2) The new specialty earmarked license plates authorized by this subsection
(f) must be designed in consultation with a representative of the Flatrock Foundation.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of Flatrock Motorsports Park new
specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the Flatrock Foundation, in
accordance with § 55-4-301. The funds must be used exclusively to support local
community education for STEM programs in Tennessee schools, including
elementary, middle, and high school programs.
SECTION 6. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-203(c)(7), is amended by adding the
following as a new, appropriately designated subdivision:
( ) Blackman Blaze;
SECTION 7. Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 55, Chapter 4, Part 3, is amended by adding
the following as a new section:
55-4-336. High school sports.
(a) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon
complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor
vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in
§ 55-4-204, shall be issued a Blackman Blaze new specialty earmarked license plate for a
motor vehicle authorized by§ 55-4-210(c).
(b) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this section must be designed
in consultation with a representative of Blackman High School Field Enhancement
Organization.
(c) The funds produced from the sale of Blackman Blaze new specialty earmarked
license plates must be allocated to the Blackman High School Field Enhancement
Organization, in accordance with § 55-4-301. The funds must be used exclusively for the
costs of construction and maintenance of a new football field, including artificial turf and a
new scoreboard, for use by all athletes at Blackman High School.
SECTION 8. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-203(c)(7), is amended by adding the
following as a new, appropriately designated subdivision:
( ) International Bluegrass Music Association;
SECTION 9. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-328, is amended by designating the
existing language as a new subsection (a) and adding the following as a new subsection (b):
(b)(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon
complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor
vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee
provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued an International Bluegrass Music
Association new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by §
55-4-21 0(c).
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(2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (b)
must be designed in consultation with a representative of International Bluegrass
Music Association, Inc.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of International Bluegrass Music
Association new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to International
Bluegrass Music Association, Inc., in accordance with§ 55-4-301. The funds must be
used exclusively in furtherance of the organization's mission in this state to connect,
educate, and empower bluegrass professionals and enthusiasts, honoring tradition
and encouraging innovation in the bluegrass community.
SECTION 10. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-203(c)(7), is amended by adding
the following as a new, appropriately designated subdivision:
( ) Sky City Entrepreneur Center;
SECTION 11. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-351, is amended by adding the
following as a new subsection:
(d)(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon
complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor
vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee
provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a Sky City Entrepreneur Center new
specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by§ 55-4-21 0(c).
(2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (d)
must be designed in consultation with a representative of Sky City Entrepreneur
Center.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of Sky City Entrepreneur Center new
specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to Sky City Entrepreneur
Center, in accordance with § 55-4-301. The funds must be used exclusively in this
state in furtherance of the mission of the organization to support programs,
operations, and services that help small business owners succeed and new
businesses launch in Blount County, Tennessee.
SECTION 12. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-203(c)(7), is amended by adding
the following as a new, appropriately designated subdivision:
( ) Local Journalism Matters;
SECTION 13. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-353, is amended by adding the
following as a new subsection:
(d)(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon
complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor
vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee
provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a Local Journalism Matters new specialty
earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by§ 55-4-21 0(c).
(2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (d)
must be designed in consultation with a representative of Front Page Foundation, Inc.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of Local Journalism Matters new
specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to Front Page Foundation, Inc.,
in accordance with § 55-4-301. The funds must be used exclusively to support
scholarships for journalism and electronic media students at the University of
Tennessee, Knoxville, and for communications students at Pellissippi State
Community College.
SECTION 14. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-203(c)(7), is amended by adding
the following as a new, appropriately designated subdivision:
( ) Knoxville Ice Bears;
SECTION 15. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-331, is amended by adding the
following as a new subsection:
(i)(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon
complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor
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vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee
provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a Knoxville Ice Bears new specialty
earmarked license plate-for a motor vehicle authorized by§ 55-4-21 0(c).
(2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (i) must
be designed in consultation with a representative of Knoxville Ice Bears Charitable
Foundation.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of Knoxville Ice Bears new specialty
earmarked license plates must be allocated to Knoxville Ice Bears Charitable
Foundation, in accordance with § 55-4-301. The funds must be used exclusively in
furtherance of the organization's mission to promote the growth, accessibility, and
sustainability of youth hockey in East Tennessee through youth hockey scholarships,
Little League team uniforms, school visits, and initiatives with the Knox County
Partners in Education Foundation.
SECTION 16. Tennessee Code· Annotated, Section 55-4-203(c)(7), is amended by adding
the following as a new, appropriately designated subdivision:
() Quail Forever;
SECTION 17. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-303, is amended by adding the
following new subsection:
(i)(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon
complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor
vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee
provided in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a Quail Forever new specialty earmarked
license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by§ 55-4-21 0(c).
(2) The new specialty earmarked license plates authorized by this subsection
(i) must contain the official Quail Forever logo or other appropriate design
representative of the organization. The plates must be designed in consultation with a
representative of Quail Forever.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of Quail Forever new specialty
earmarked license plates must be allocated to Pheasants Forever, Inc., in
accordance with § 55-4-301. The funds must be used exclusively in this state to
further Quail Forever's mission of upland habitat conservation, public access, and
education.
SECTION 18. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-203(c)(7), is amended by adding
the following as a new, appropriately designated subdivision:
() Adopt a Golden;
SECTION 19. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-304, is amended by adding the
following new subsection:
(d)(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon
complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor
vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee
provided in § 55:...4-204, •shall be issued an Adopt a Golden new specialty earmarked
license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by§ 55-4-21 0(c).
(2) The new specialty earmarked license plates authorized by this subsection
(d) must be designed in consultation with a representative of Adopt a Golden
Knoxville, Inc.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of Adopt a Golden new specialty
earmarked license plates must be allocated to Adopt a Golden Knoxville, Inc., in
accordance with § 55-4-301. The funds must be used exclusively to support the
organization's efforts to rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming Golden Retrievers,
golden mixes, and Labrador Retrievers across East Tennessee, including veterinary
care and medical treatment.
SECTION 20. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-294, is amended by adding the
following new subsection:
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(e) For purposes of minimum issuance requirements under§ 55-4-202, the specialty
earmarked license plates for specific fraternities and sororities authorized pursuant to this
section are to be calculated in the aggregate and not by specific fraternity or sorority.
SECTION 21. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-203(c)(7), is amended by adding
the following as a new, appropriately designated subdivision:
() Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention;
SECTION 22. Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 55, Chapter 4, Part 3, is amended by adding
the following as a new section:
55-4-347. Victim advocacy and support.
(a) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon
complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor
vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in
§ 55-4-204, shall be issued a Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Awareness and
Prevention new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-
21 0(c).
(b) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this section must be designed
in consultation with the executive director of the Tennessee Coalition to End Domestic and
Sexual Violence.
(c) The funds produced from the sale of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault
Awareness and Prevention new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the
Tennessee Coalition to End Domestic and Sexual Violence, in accordance with§ 55-4-301.
The funds must be used exclusively by the organization to support statewide awareness,
prevention activities, technical assistance, training, and related services as well as to support
Tennessee domestic violence and sexual assault service providers delivering direct victim
services, including, but not limited to, emergency shelter, crisis intervention, advocacy,
counseling, and related support services.
SECTION 23. Tennessee Code Annotat_ed, Section 55-4-203(c)(7), is amended by adding
the following as a new, appropriately designated subdivision:
( ) Back the Blue;
SECTION 24. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-321, is amended by adding the
following new subsection:
(e)(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon
complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor
vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee
provided in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a Back the Blue new specialty earmarked
license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by§ 55-4-21 0(c).
(2) The new specialty earmarked license plates authorized by this subsection
(e) must be designed in consultation with a representative of the Chattanooga Police
Foundation.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of Back the Blue new specialty
earmarked license plates must be allocated to the Chattanooga Police Foundation, in
accordance with § 55-4-301. The funds must be used exclusively in this state to
support law enforcement officers and their families.
SECTION 25. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-203(c)(7), is amended by adding
the following as a new, appropriately designated subdivision:
( ) Cowboy Up;
SECTION 26. Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 55, Chapter 4, Part 3, is amended by adding
the following as a new section:
55-4-348. Mental health and crisis services.
(a) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicie who is a resident of this state, upon
complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor
vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided in §
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55-4-204, shall be issued a Cowboy Up new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor
vehicle authorized by§ 55-4-210(c).
(b) The new specialty earmarked license plates authorized by this section must be
designed in consultation with a representative of Cowboy Up, Inc.
(c) The funds produced from the sale of Cowboy Up new specialty earmarked license
plates must be allocated to Cowboy Up, Inc., in accordance with § 55-4-301. The funds must
be used exclusively in this state for suicide prevention, awareness, and education programs
and services.
SECTION 27. Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 55, Chapter 4, Part 2, is amended by adding
the following as a new section:
55-4-282. Airman's Medal; Navy and Marine Corps Medal; Soldier's Medal.
(a) A recipient of a medal described in subdivisions (a)(1)-(3) who is a resident of this
state and who is an owner or lessee of a motor vehicle, upon complying with state motor
vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and upon paying the
regular registration fee for plates, as prescribed under § 55-4-111 , and the fee provided for in
§ 55-4-204(c)(1), shall be issued a distinctive motor vehicle registration plate representative
of the medal, as appropriate, for a motor vehicle authorized by § 55-4-210(c). Plates for the
following medals are authorized pursuant to this section:
(1) Airman's Medal;
(2) Navy and Marine Corps Medal; and
(3) Soldier's Medal.
(b) The plates provided for in this section must include a likeness of the Airman's
Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Medal, or Soldier's Medal and bear the legend "Airman's
Medal", "Navy and Marine Corps Medal", or "Soldier's Medal", as applicable.
(c) All applications pursuant to this section must be accompanied by the following as
proof of eligibility for issuance of a plate pursuant to this section:
(1 )(A) A valid military identification card or such other document as the
commissioner designates as sufficient proof that the applicant is an active
member of the United States armed forces; or
(B)(i) A certified copy of the veteran's certificate of release or
discharge from active duty, department of defense form 214 (DD 214),
honorable discharge certificate, department of defense form 256 (DD
256), or report of separation and record of service, NGB form 22, that
indicates an honorable discharge characterization;
(ii) A valid DD form 2 (Retired) military identification card; or
(iii) A Tennessee driver license that indicates military service in
accordance with § 55-50-354; and
(2) Documentation certifying that the application for the plate is submitted by a
recipient of a medal described in subdivisions (a)(1 )-(3) to include:
(A) Military orders awarding the medal, authorized by a branch of the
United States armed forces to the member or veteran; or
(8) The veteran's certificate of release or discharge from active duty,
department of defense form 214 (DD 214), or report of separation and record
of service, NGB form 22, indicating the awarding of the medal.
(d) An applicant is required to submit the documentation required by subsection (c)
only when initially applying for license plates under this section. Subsequent license plates
under this section must be issued to that person without the repeated presentation of
documentation.
SECTION 28. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-203(c)(5)(G), is amended by adding
the following as new, appropriately designated subdivisions:
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( ) Airman's Medal;
( ) Navy and Marine Corps Medal;
( ) Soldier's Medal;
SECTION 29. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-204(c)(1), is amended by adding
the following as new, appropriately designated subdivisions:
( ) Airman's Medal;
( ) Navy and Marine Corps Medal;
( ) Soldier's Medal;
SECTION 30. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-203(c)(7), is amended by adding
the following as a new, appropriately designated subdivision:
( ) Christian Brothers High School;
SECTION 31. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-335, is amended by adding the
following new subsection:
(d)(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon
complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor
vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee
provided in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a Christian Brothers High School new
specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by§ 55-4-21 0(c).
(2) The new specialty earmarked license plates authorized by this subsection
(d) must be designed in consultation with a representative of Christian Brothers
LaSalle High School.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of Christian Brothers High School new
specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to Christian Brothers LaSalle
High School, in accordance with § 55-4-301. The funds must be used exclusively to
support adolescent mental health advocacy and programming.
SECTION 32. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-203(c)(7), is amended by adding
the following as a new, appropriately designated subdivision:
( ) Nashville Bourbon Auction;
SECTION 33. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-324, is amended by adding the
following new subsection:
(d)(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon
complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor
vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee
provided in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a Nashville Bourbon Auction new specialty
earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by§ 55-4-21 0(c).
(2) The new specialty earmarked license plates authorized by this subsection
(d) must be designed in consultation with a representative of the Nashville Bourbon
Auction.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of Nashville Bourbon Auction new
specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to Nashville Bourbon Auction, in
accordance with § 55-4-301. The funds must be used exclusively to support
Nashville-area noQprofit organizations. •
SECTION 34. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-203(c)(7), is amended by adding
the following as a new, appropriately designated subdivision:
( ) The Bridge House;
SECTION 35. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-345, is amended by adding the
following as a new subsection:
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(f)(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon
complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor
vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee
provided in § 55-4-204, shall be issued T.he Bridge House new specialty earmarked
license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by§ 55-4-210(c).
(2) The new specialty earmarked license plates authorized by this subsection
(f) must be designed in consultation with a representative of The Bridge House, Inc.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of The Bridge House new specialty
earmarked license plates must be allocated to The Bridge House, Inc., in accordance
with § 55-4-301. The funds must be used exclusively to provide support for children in
and aging out of foster care in this state.
SECTION 36. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-294(c}, is amended by adding the
following new subdivision:
(3) Notwithstanding subdivision (c)(1), the Delta Sigma Theta specialty earmarked
plate must be designed in consultation with an authorized representative of Delta Sigma
Theta sorority and must contain the colors, logo, or other emblem or design distinctive to
Delta Sigma Theta sorority. No later than January 1, 2027, the commissioner shall cause to
be reissued a new Delta Sigma Theta specialty earmarked plate of a design created
pursuant to this subdivision (c)(3).
SECTION 37. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-294(d}, is amended by designating
the existing language as subdivision (1) and adding the following new subdivision:
(2) Notwithstanding subdivision (d)(1}, the proceeds from the fees paid pursuant to§
55-4-204 for the sale of the Delta Sigma Theta specialty earmarked plate authorized by this
section, minus the expense the state has incurred in designing and manufacturing the plate,
must be allocated to the Delta Research and Educational Foundation to provide academic
scholarships at schools in this state or to students from this state.
SECTION 38. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-203(c)(7), is amended by adding
the following as a new, appropriately designated subdivision:
( ) LaunchTN;
SECTION 39. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-351, is amended by adding the
following as a new subsection:
(e)(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon
complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor
vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee
provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a LaunchTN new specialty earmarked
license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by§ 55-4-210(c).
(2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (e)
must be designed in consultation with a representative of Launch Tennessee.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of LaunchTN new specialty earmarked
license plates must be allocated to Launch Tennessee, in accordance with § 55-4-
301. The funds must be used exclusively in furtherance of the organization's mission
to empower innovators across this state by providing capital, commercialization
support, and connections, including a partnership with the Entrepreneurs'
Organization of Nashville (EO). •
SECTION 40. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-203(c)(7), is amended by adding
the following as a new, appropriately designated subdivision:
( ) Childhood Cancer Awareness;
SECTION 41. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-343, is amended by adding the
following as a new subsection:
(b)(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon
complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor
vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee
provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a Childhood Cancer Awareness new
specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by§ 55-4-210(c).
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(2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (b)
must be designed in consultation with a representative of Liv - In the Journey
Foundation.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of Childhood Cancer Awareness new
specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to Liv - In the Journey
Foundation, in accordance with § 55-4-301. The funds must be used exclusively for
cancer awareness and research, supporting families, and advocacy initiatives.
SECTION 42. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-203(c)(7), is amended by adding
the following as a new, appropriately designated subdivision:
() Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary or Service;
SECTION 43. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-320, is amended by adding the
following as a new subsection:
(c)(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon
complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor
vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee
provided for in§ 55-4-204, shall be issued a Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary
or Service new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by §
55-4-21 0(c).
(2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (c)
must be designed in consultation with a representative of Operation Stand Down
Tennessee.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of Global War on Terrorism
Expeditionary or Service new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to
Operation Stand Down Tennessee in accordance with § 55-4-301. The funds must be
used exclusively in furtherance of the organization's mission to engage, equip, and
empower military veterans and their families through crisis, career, connection, and
community services in this state.
SECTION 44. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-203(c)(7), is amended by adding
the following as a new, appropriately designated subdivision:
() Sons of the American Revolution;
SECTION 45. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-353, is amended by adding the
following as a new subsection:
(e)(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon
complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor
vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee
provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a Sons of the American Revolution new
specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by§ 55-4-210(c).
(2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (e)
must be designed in consultation with a representative of the Tennessee Society of
the Sons of the American Revolution.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of Sons of the American Revolution new
specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the Tennessee Society of the
Sons of the American Revolution, in accordance with§ 55-4-301. The funds must be
used exclusively in furtherance of the organization's programs and activities in this
state to promote patriotism, serve communities, and educate current and future
generations about the founding principles of the United States.
SECTION 46. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-203(c)(7), is amended by adding
the following as a new, appropriately designated subdivision:
( ) Blacksmithing;
SECTION 47. Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 55, Chapter 4, Part 3, is amended by adding
the following as a new section:
55-4-329. Arts and hobbies.
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(a) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon
complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor
vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee provided for in
§ 55-4-204, shall be issued a Blacksmithing new specialty earmarked license plate for a
motor vehicle authorized by§ 55-4-21 0(c).
(b) The new specialty earmarked license plates provided for in this section must be
designed in consultation with a representative of the Appalachian Area Chapter of
Blacksmiths.
(c) The funds produced from the sale of Blacksmithing new specialty earmarked
license plates must be allocated to the Appalachian Area Chapter of Blacksmiths in
accordance with § 55-4-301. The funds must be used exclusively to support artisan
blacksmith guilds in this state and promote the art of blacksmithing.
SECTION 48. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-203(c)(7), is amended by adding
the following as a new, appropriately designated subdivision:
( ) Ohio State University;
SECTION 49. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-333, is amended by adding the
following new subsection:
(b)(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon
complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor
vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee
provided in § 55-4-204, shall be issued an Ohio State University new specialty
earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by§ 55-4-21 0(c).
(2) The new specialty earmarked license plates authorized by this subsection
(b) must be designed in consultation with a representative of the Ohio State
University Alumni Club of Nashville.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of Ohio State University new specialty
earmarked license plates must be allocated to the Ohio State University Alumni Club
of Nashville, in accordance with § 55-4-301. The funds must be used exclusively to
fund scholarships for students graduating from Tennessee high schools attending
Ohio State University.
SECTION 50. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-203(c)(7), is amended by adding
the following as a new, appropriately designated subdivision:
( ) Appalachia Service Project;
SECTION 51. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-324, is amended by adding the
following new subsection:
(h)(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon
complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor
vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee
provided in § 55-4-204, shall be issued an Appalachia Service Project new specialty
earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by§ 55-4-21 0(c).
(2) The new specialty earmarked license plates authorized by this subsection
(h) must be designed in consultation with a representative of Appalachia Service
Project, Inc.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of Appalachia Service Project new
specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to Appalachia Service Project,
Inc., in accordance with§ 55-4-301. The funds must be used exclusively in this state
to support the organization's mission to repair and replace homes for low-income
families in Central Appalachia.
SECTION 52. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-203(c)(7), is amended by adding
the following as a new, appropriately designated subdivision:
() POD256;
SECTION 53. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-351, is amended by adding the
following as a new subsection:
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SB 1477
(f)(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon
complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor
vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee
provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a POD256 new specialty earmarked
license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by§ 55-4-21 0(c).
(2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (f) must
be designed in consultation with a representative of the 256 Foundation.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of POD256 new specialty earmarked
license plates must be allocated to the 256 Foundation, in accordance with § 55-4-
301. The funds must be used exclusively in this state to support educators and open-
source developers working on intelligent energy initiatives.
SECTION 54. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-203(c)(7), is amended by adding
the following as a new, appropriately designated subdivision:
() American Foundation for Suicide Prevention;
SECTION 55. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-348, as added by Section 26 of this
act, is amended by designating the existing language as subsection (a) and adding the following as
a new subsection (b):
(b)(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon
complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor
vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee
provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued an American Foundation for Suicide
Prevention new specialty earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by §
55-4-21 0(c).
(2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (b)
must be designed in consultation with a representative of the American Foundation
for Suicide Prevention, Tennessee chapter.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of American Foundation for Suicide
Prevention new specialty earmarked license plates must be allocated to the American
Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Tennessee chapter, in accordance with § 55-4-
301. The funds must be used exclusively in furtherance of the organization's mission
to bring both suicide education and awareness programs to schools and
organizations, in addition to supporting those touched by the tragedy of suicide, in
this state.
SECTION 56. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-203(c)(7), is amended by adding
the following as a new, appropriately designated subdivision:
() Foodies of TN;
SECTION 57. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-324, is amended by adding the
following new subsection:
(i)(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon
complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor
vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor vehicle and the fee
provided in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a Foodies of TN new specialty earmarked
license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by§ 55-4-210(c).
(2) The new specialty earmarked license plates authorized by this subsection
(i) must be designed in consultation with a representative of Foodies of TN Inc.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of Foodies of TN new specialty
earmarked license plates must be allocated to Foodies of TN Inc., in accordance with
§ 55-4-301. The funds must be used exclusively in this state to support the
organization's mission to assist independently owned local restaurants throughout the
state.
SECTION 58. Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 55, Chapter 4, Part 2, is amended by adding
the following as a new section:
55-4-283. Meritorious Service Medal.
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(a) A recipient of the Meritorious Service Medal who is a resident of this state and
who is an owner or lessee of a motor vehicle, upon complying with state motor vehicle laws
relating to registration and licensing of motor vehicles and upon paying the regular
registration fee for plates, as prescribed under§ 55-4-111, and the fee provided for in§ 55-4-
204(c)(1), shall be issued a distinctive Meritorious Service Medal motor vehicle registration
plate, as appropriate, for a motor vehicle authorized by§ 55-4-21 0(c).
(b) The plates provided for in this section must include a likeness of the Meritorious
Service Medal and bear the legend "Meritorious Service Medal".
(c) All applications pursuant to this section must be accompanied by the following as
proof of eligibility for issuance of a plate pursuant to this section:
(1 )(A) A valid military identification card or such other document as the
commissioner designates as sufficient proof that the applicant is an active
member of the United States armed forces; or
(B)(i) A certified copy of the veteran's certificate of release or
discharge from active duty, department of defense form 214 (DD 214),
honorable discharge certificate, department of defense form 256 (DD
256), or report of separation and record of service, NGB form 22, that
indicates an honorable discharge characterization;
(ii) A valid DD form 2 (Retired) military identification card; or
(iii) A Tennessee driver license that indicates military service in
accordance with § 55-50-354; and
(2) Documentation certifying that the application for the plate is submitted by a
recipient of the Meritorious Service Medal to include:
(A) Military orders awarding the Meritorious Service Medal, authorized
by a branch of the United States armed forces to the member or veteran; or
(B) The veteran's certificate of release or discharge from active duty,
department of defense form 214 (DD 214), or report of separation and record
of service, NGB form 22, indicating the awarding of the Meritorious Service
Medal.
(d) An applicant is required to submit the documentation required by subsection (c)
only when initially applying for license plates under this section. Subsequent license plates
under this section must be issued to that person without the repeated presentation of
documentation.
SECTION 59. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-203(c)(5)(G), is amended by adding
the following as a new, appropriately designated subdivision:
() Meritorious Service Medal;
SECTION 60. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-204(c)(1), is amended by adding
the following as a new, appropriately designated subdivision:
() Meritorious Service Medal;
SECTION 61. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-203(c)(7), is amended by adding
the following as a new, appropriately.designated subdivision:
( ) Tennessee Aviation;
SECTION 62. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-351, is amended by adding the
following as a new subsection:
(g)(1) An owner or lessee of a motor vehicle who is a resident of this state, upon
complying with state motor vehicle laws relating to registration and licensing of motor
vehicles and paying the regular fee applicable to the motor ·vehicle and the fee
provided for in § 55-4-204, shall be issued a Tennessee Aviation new specialty
earmarked license plate for a motor vehicle authorized by§ 55-4-210(c).
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SB 1477
(2) The new specialty earmarked plates provided for in this subsection (g)
must be designed in consultation with a representative of the Tennessee Aviation
Association.
(3) The funds produced from the sale of Tennessee Aviation new specialty
earmarked license plates must be allocated to the Tennessee Aviation Association, in
accordance with § 55-4-301. The funds must be used exclusively in this state to
provide scholarships to young aviation students.
SECTION 63. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-343(d), is amended by adding the
following new subdivision:
(4) Notwithstanding § 55-4-202(k)(1 ), the Man2Man Prostate Cancer Group new
specialty earmarked license plate authorized pursuant to thi_s subsection (d) has until July 1,
2027, to meet the applicable minimum issuance requirements of§ 55-4-202(k)(1 ).
SECTION 64. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-342(c)(4), is amended by deleting
"July 1, 2026" and substituting instead "July 1, 2027".
SECTION 65. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-324(f), is amended by adding the
following new subdivision:
(4) Notwithstanding § 55-4-202(k)(1 ), the YMCA new specialty earmarked license
plate authorized pursuant to this subsection (f) has until July 1, 2027, to meet the applicable
minimum issuance requirements of§ 55-4-202(k)(1 ).
SECTION 66. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-304(i}, is amended by adding the
following new subdivision:
(4) Notwithstanding § 55-4-202(k)(1}, The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee new
specialty earmarked license plate authorized pursuant to this subsection (i) has until July 1,
2027, to meet the applicable minimum issuance requirements of§ 55-4-202(k)(1 ).
SECTION 67. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-312(d), is amended by adding the
following as a new subdivision:
(4) Notwithstanding § 55-4-202(k)(1}, the Friends of Warner Parks new specialty
earmarked license plate authorized pursuant to this subsection (d) has until July 1, 2027, to
meet the applicable minimum issuance requirements of§ 55-4-202(k)(1 ).
SECTION 68. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-304(k), is amended by adding the
following new subdivision:
(4) Notwithstanding § 55-4-202(k)(1), the STAR Riding Therapy new specialty
earmarked license plate authorized pursuant to this subsection (k) has until July 1, 2027, to
meet the applicable minimum issuance requirements of§ 55-4-202(k)(1 ).
SECTION 69. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-324(e), is amended by adding the
following new subdivision:
(4) Notwithstanding § 55-4-202(k)(1), the Singing for Change new specialty
earmarked license plate authorized pursuant to this subsection (e) has until July 1, 2027, to
meet the applicable minimum issuance requirements of§ 55-4-202(k)(1 ).
SECTION 70. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-350(d}, is amended by adding the
following new subdivi~ion:
(4) Notwithstanding§ 55-4-202(k)(1), the Tennessee Environment & Restoration new
specialty earmarked license plate authorized pursuant to this subsection (d) has until July 1,
2027, to meet the applicable minimum issuance requirements of§ 55-4-202(k)(1).
SECTION 71. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-304(h)(4), is amended by deleting
the language "July 1, 2026" and substituting instead the language "July 1, 2027".
SECTION 72. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-331(h), is amended by adding the
following new subdivision:
(4) Notwithstanding § 55-4-202(k)(1), the Nashville Sounds new specialty earmarked
license plate authorized pursuant to this subsection (h) has until July 1, 2027, to meet the
~pplicable minimum issuance requirements of§ 55-4-202(k)(1 ).
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SECTION 73. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-314(d)(4), is amended by deleting
"July 1, 2026" and substituting instead "July 1, 2027".
SECTION 74. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-330(b)(4}, is amended by deleting
"July 1, 2026" and substituting instead "July 1, 2027".
SECTION 75. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-341(d)(5}, is amended by deleting
"July 1, 2026" and substituting instead "July 1, 2027".
SECTION 76. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-345(1)(4), is amended by deleting
"July 1, 2026" and substituting instead "July 1, 2027".
SECTION 77. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-352(e}, is amended by adding the
following new subdivision:
(4) Notwithstanding § 55-4-202(k)(1), the Slow Down Move Over new specialty
earmarked license plate authorized pursuant to this subsection (e) has until July 1, 2027, to
meet the applicable minimum issuance requirements of§ 55-4-202(k)(1 ).
SECTION 78. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-333(c)(4), is amended by deleting
"July 1, 2026" and substituting instead "July 1, 2027".
SECTION 79. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-344(j)(4), is amended by deleting
"July 1, 2026" and substituting instead "July 1, 2027".
SECTION 80. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-320(e)(5), is amended by deleting
"July 1, 2026" and substituting instead "July 1, 2027".
SECTION 81. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-323(d), is amended by adding the
following new subdivision:
(4) Notwithstanding § 55-4-202(k)(1}, the Order of the Eastern Star new specialty
earmarked license plate authorized pursuant to this subsection (d) has until July 1, 2027, to
meet the applicable minimum issuance requirements of§ 55-4-202(k)(1 ).
SECTION 82. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-320(f), is amended by adding the_
following new subdivision:
(4) Notwithstanding § 55-4-202(k)(1}, the Support Our Veterans new specialty
earmarked license plate authorized pursuant to this subsection (f) has until July 1, 2027, to
meet the applicable minimum issuance requirements of§ 55-4-202(k)(1 ).
SECTION 83. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-4-344(e), is amended by adding the
following as a new subdivision:
(4) Notwithstanding § 55-4-202(k)(1 ), the ALS Research new specialty earmarked
license plate authorized pursuant to this subsection (e) has until July 1, 2027, to meet the
applicable minimum issuance requirements of§ 55-4-202(k)(1 ).
SECTION 84. The heading in this act is for reference purposes only and does not constitute
a part of the law enacted by this act. However, the Tennessee Code Commission is requested to
include the heading in any·compilation or publication containing this act.
SECTION 85. If any provision of this act or its application to any person or circumstance is
held invalid, then the invalidity does not affect other provisions or applications of the act that can be
given effectwithout th~ invalid provision or application, and to that end, the provisions of this act are
severable. •
SE~TION 86. This act takes effect July 1, 2026, the public welfare requiring it.
14
SENATE BILL NO. 1477
PASSED: April 13, 2026
~- ).. --,. b\1. \.-'5,,\'\u
\ RANDY McNAL\Y
SPEAKER OF THE SENATE
CAMERON SEXTON, SPEAKER
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
APPROVED this g-7tJ.. day of t\pr;J 2026
~~
BILL LEE, GOVERNOREvery fact on this page links to its source, starting with the official bill record.