SB 1650 Tennessee Senate · 114th Regular Session (2025-2026)

Real Property - As introduced, expands existing statutory authority of a masonic lodge to take real property by deed by extending the same authority to a masonic lodge-sponsored corporation or limited liability company that is created for such purpose; authorizes a masonic lodge-sponsored corporation or limited liability company to lease or rent real or personal property to a masonic lodge or other entity. - Amends TCA Title 48, Chapter 102.

SB 1650 allows Masonic lodges in Tennessee to use sponsored corporations or limited liability companies (LLCs) to acquire, own, and lease property for lodge purposes. Specifically, it expands existing law to let these sponsored entities purchase or receive property by gift (like buildings, land, or equipment) for lodges, temples, or burial sites, and to lease property back to the lodges or others. The bill directly affects Masonic lodges and their legally formed sponsored business entities. It clarifies that property deeds must vest ownership in either the lodge or its sponsored entity, without impacting prior property transfers. This is a procedural update to Tennessee property law for fraternal organizations.
Bill status passed 3 of 5 stages cleared
Introduction
Jan 2026
Committee Review
Feb 2026
Senate Passage
Feb 2026
House Passage
Governor
Introduced Jan 15, 2026 Last action Feb 23, 2026
Floor votes

How they voted

This bill passed the Senate by voice vote (no roll call recorded).
Full legislative history

Actions timeline

Total actions
10
Key actions
3
Committee
3
Feb 19, 2026
Upper · Passed
Passed Senate, Ayes 31, Nays 0
upper
Feb 10, 2026
Lower · Passed
Recommended for passage, refer to Senate Calendar Committee
lower
Feb 3, 2026
Lower · Passed
Placed on Senate Commerce and Labor Committee calendar for 2/10/2026
lower
Jan 21, 2026
Committee
Passed on Second Consideration, refer to Senate Commerce and Labor Committee
upper
Jan 15, 2026
Introduced
Introduced, Passed on First Consideration
lower
1 primary · 0 co-sponsors

Sponsors

Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Photo of Todd Gardenhire
Todd Gardenhire
RRepublican
TN
10