TN HB0653

Political campaign committees must pay a $150 annual registration fee to the registry of election finance by January 31 each year, effective January 1, 2026; candidates for elective office are exempt from this fee

Contribution reporting thresholds increase from $100 to $250, and campaign finance disclosure reporting thresholds change to $5,000 for statewide races and $3,000 for other state or local races

Political party committees and legislative caucus committees are exempt from contribution limits, while affiliated but independently controlled committees remain subject to limits

Campaign funds may be used to defend civil litigation related to election or nomination and to pay public relations, consulting, and legal expenses for criminal matters involving the candidate

Tennessee Ethics Commission must provide annual ethics training to executive branch department commissioners and governor's cabinet-level staff, effective January 1, 2026

Sworn complaint information against candidates is confidential during the 30 days before voting through election day, and staff or commission members who knowingly disclose confidential information face immediate termination or removal