Housing

HB 452 changes Tennessee's eviction process for cases where a tenant hasn't paid rent. It requires that trials must be held within 14 days of the landlord filing the case and limits hearings to only rent-related issues, such as lease terms and payment history. After a court rules in the landlord's favor, the tenant must move out within seven days of receiving the court order, and the landlord can request immediate sheriff removal if the tenant doesn't comply. This bill affects tenants and landlords facing nonpayment evictions and takes effect on July 1, 2025.

SB 244 would change Tennessee's housing law to require that affordable housing units built under the state's voluntary attainable housing program remain restricted for at least 30 years, rather than indefinitely. This applies specifically to multi-family housing developments constructed through this incentive program. The bill amends existing law by replacing the phrase "in perpetuity" with "for at least thirty (30) years" in the deed restriction requirement. This adjustment shortens the mandatory affordability period while maintaining a significant commitment to long-term accessible housing.

SB 806 changes Tennessee eviction procedures for cases based on nonpayment of rent. It requires eviction trials to occur within 14 days of filing (down from a previous minimum of 6 days), limits court hearings to only rent-related issues like lease terms and payment history, and gives tenants 7 days to move after a judgment. This directly affects tenants facing eviction and landlords filing nonpayment lawsuits. The bill aims to streamline the process while narrowing court focus to rent disputes.