HB 365 / SB 1404

This bill strengthens private property rights for county residents by requiring county legislative approval before a municipality can take any action that affects the tax obligations, fees, or costs of property owners outside city limits. This ensures that municipalities cannot unilaterally annex unincorporated land or impose financial burdens on county residents without local government oversight.

The legislation protects rural and unincorporated communities from forced annexation and prevents municipalities from expanding their jurisdiction without the consent of county governments and affected residents. It reinforces the principle of local control, ensuring that those impacted by annexation decisions have a voice in the process.

Additionally, the bill requires that joint economic and community development boards be proportionally representative of county populations to ensure that rural and unincorporated communities receive fair representation in economic planning decisions.

By passing this measure, Tennessee upholds property rights, limits government overreach, and ensures that annexation and taxation decisions are made with transparency and local input. This bill provides an essential check on municipal authority and strengthens county residents’ ability to control their own property and finances.