TN HB0686

Creates the African American Cultural and Historical Grant Fund within the state general fund to support capital projects at Tennessee facilities highlighting African American contributions, culture, or history

Tennessee Historical Commission will administer the fund and establish application guidelines, with priority given to new facility construction, renovation of culturally significant sites, enhancement of facilities named for significant African Americans, and restoration of National Register of Historic Places properties

Fund composed of General Assembly appropriations plus gifts, grants, and donations; administrative costs capped at 5% of total annual appropriation

Unexpended funds carry forward rather than reverting to the general fund; interest from investments remains in the fund

Annual report required to legislative finance committees by March 1, beginning in 2026; effective date July 1, 2025