Tennessee House Bill HB1543

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/13/26
• Refer: 1/15/26
• Refer: 3/2/26
• Refer: 3/11/26
• Chaptered: 4/23/26
• Passed: 4/23/26

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4, Chapter 1, Part 3, relative to state songs.

Summary

HB1543 amends Tennessee’s statutes governing official state songs by adding a new song to the list of recognized state songs: "Tennessee" by Drew Holcomb. The bill is a naming-and-designating measure rather than a regulatory or appropriations bill, and it updates Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4, Chapter 1, Part 3 to reflect the new designation. The measure takes effect immediately upon becoming law, indicating the General Assembly intended the designation to be recognized without delay. In practical terms, the bill expands the state’s roster of official songs and may be used in ceremonial, educational, and promotional contexts associated with Tennessee state symbols.

Impact

The bill amends Tennessee Code Annotated § 4-1-302 by adding subdivision (16), thereby making "Tennessee" by Drew Holcomb an official state song. It affects the state’s list of official symbols and may influence how state agencies, schools, and public ceremonies reference Tennessee’s official music designations, but it does not impose new duties, penalties, or funding requirements on private parties or government entities.

Sentiment

The bill appears to have been broadly and strongly supported. It advanced unanimously through the House Naming & Designating Committee and the House State & Local Government Committee, and it passed the House on third consideration by consent calendar with 81 yeas and 0 nays. The voting history suggests little to no opposition and a largely celebratory or symbolic reception.

Contention

There is no recorded substantive controversy in the available committee or floor history. Because the bill concerns a state song designation, any potential disagreement would likely have centered on symbolic preference, the selection of the specific song and artist, or the broader question of whether the state should add another official song. However, the available record shows no opposition votes or documented debate.