Tennessee House Bill HB2712

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/24
• Refer: 3/5/24
• Refer: 3/12/24
• Refer: 3/26/24
• Refer: 4/8/24
• Chaptered: 5/13/24
• Passed: 5/13/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 3; Title 4; Title 5; Title 6; Title 7; Title 9; Title 12; Title 13; Title 57; Title 62; Title 66; Title 67 and Title 68, relative to performance venues.

Impact

The bill is projected to have a significant impact on the cultural landscape of Tennessee by providing financial resources for live music and performance venues. This could enhance the opportunities for local musicians and performers by ensuring they have access to funding for productions, thereby stimulating economic growth in the arts sector. The establishment of a dedicated fund can ensure that live performances are sustained and promoted in the state, supporting a vibrant cultural scene.

Summary

House Bill 2712 amends various sections of the Tennessee Code to establish a 'Live Music and Performance Venue Fund' aimed at supporting live music activities across the state. The bill defines 'live music and performance venues' as establishments whose primary function is to host live performances, and it outlines the required attributes such venues must possess to qualify for support. The fund will be created through non-state sources and managed by the Tennessee Film, Entertainment and Music Commission, which will provide grants to eligible venues and performers to support their operational needs and promotional activities.

Sentiment

Overall sentiment regarding HB 2712 is largely positive among supporters in the arts community. Advocates argue that it acknowledges the importance of live music as a vital component of cultural identity and economic development. However, there are some concerns among skeptics regarding the funding sources and fiscal sustainability of the proposed grants, leading to a mixed reception from financial oversight groups.

Contention

While the bill encourages the growth of live performances, some points of contention may arise regarding how the funding is allocated and the criteria for eligibility. There could be debates over which venues qualify for grants and whether the fund will adequately support a diverse array of music genres and performance types. This discussion emphasizes the balance between fostering economic growth in the arts and ensuring equitable support across different community interests.