Tennessee arts commission seats go to state appointees

The commission has 15 members appointed by the governor and the leaders of the Senate and House. The 15 members must broadly represent the performing, visual, and literary arts. A member's congressional district is based on where that person is registered to vote. Members must be Tennessee citizens with a strong interest in performing, visual, or literary arts. The governor appoints one member from each congressional district. Each legislative leader appoints one member from each of the state's three grand divisions. Members serving on June 30, 2026, leave office on July 1, 2026, when the new appointments take effect.

The law sets staggered terms for the first appointments and five-year terms for later appointments. Initial terms vary by congressional district and grand division: three, four, or five years. Later appointments are for five years. A member who completes a full five-year term cannot be reappointed for one year after that term ends. A member whose term ends continues serving until a successor is appointed. Vacancies are filled for the rest of the term using the original appointment process. Later appointments must be made by June 15, begin July 1, and end June 30. The one-year reappointment wait starts when a full five-year term ends.

The law keeps existing commission rules in effect until they are changed or repealed. This covers commission rules in effect on June 30, 2026, and commission members' pay and expenses. Members receive no pay but must be reimbursed for actual and necessary expenses. Travel reimbursements follow state travel rules. The commission elects a chair and other officers each year. The law takes effect July 1, 2026. Existing rules continue from that date until amended or repealed.