Courts - As enacted, prohibits the disqualification or removal of a municipal judge who was duly elected or appointed to office prior to March 7, 2025, and who is qualified for such office under the laws and interpretations in effect at the time of such election or appointment, due to a residency requirement during the term of office to which the municipal judge was elected or appointed. - Amends TCA Title 8; Title 16; Title 17; Title 18; Title 20; Title 21; Title 24; Title 25; Title 26; Title 27; Title 28 and Title 29.

HB 490 prevents the removal or disqualification of municipal judges who were lawfully elected or appointed before March 7, 2025, even if they later no longer meet residency requirements during their term. The bill protects these judges from being forced out of office due to residency changes that occur after their appointment, as long as they met all qualifications at the time of election. It amends multiple Tennessee code sections related to courts (Titles 8, 16-29) to ensure this protection applies to judges serving under existing laws. The law took effect on May 21, 2025, after being signed by the Governor. This policy change directly affects municipal judges in Tennessee who were appointed or elected prior to the specified date.