Tennessee Senate Bill SB2305

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/2/26

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 52; Title 68 and Title 71, relative to veterans' benefits.

Summary

SB2305 requires the Tennessee Department of Veterans Services to prepare and submit a report to the Speaker of the Senate and the Speaker of the House by January 1, 2027. The report must list the total number of state and federal benefits available to veterans and surviving spouses, and include a short synopsis of each benefit. The bill is framed as an informational measure rather than a direct benefits expansion, aimed at compiling and organizing existing veterans’ assistance programs. The bill does not create new veterans’ benefits or change eligibility rules. Instead, it directs a state agency to inventory and summarize benefits across state and federal systems, which could make it easier for lawmakers and the public to understand the full range of available services. Because it is a reporting requirement, its legal effect is limited to administrative duties for the Department of Veterans Services and a one-time reporting deadline.

Impact

SB2305 would amend Tennessee law to impose a new reporting obligation on the Department of Veterans Services, but it would not directly alter benefit eligibility, funding, or administration for veterans or surviving spouses. Its practical impact would be to create a consolidated reference of available benefits, potentially improving transparency and access to information for veterans, families, and policymakers. The bill references Titles 4, 52, 68, and 71, but the operative change is the mandated report due in 2027.

Sentiment

Based on the bill text and the absence of recorded committee debate or votes in the provided materials, the measure appears to be noncontroversial and informational in nature. There is no evidence of opposition or amendment activity in the available record. The bill’s narrow scope and focus on reporting suggest generally neutral or favorable sentiment.

Contention

No specific points of contention are reflected in the provided transcripts or voting history, and no committee discussion is available. If any concerns were raised, they are not captured in the record provided here. The only potential issue implied by the bill is the administrative burden on the Department of Veterans Services to compile a comprehensive inventory of benefits, but no legislator or stakeholder objections are documented.