Tennessee Chamber of Commerce & Industry Announces 2026 Legislative Agenda

Today, The Tennessee Chamber of Commerce & Industry (TCCI) released its 2026 Legislative Agenda, setting forth clear, actionable policy priorities to strengthen Tennessee’s economy, build a skilled workforce, and support long-term business growth.

“These are not abstract goals, they are real, practical priorities that reflect what Tennessee businesses need to compete, hire, and invest, said Josh Brown, President & CEO of TCCI, “We look forward to working with lawmakers to make meaningful progress in 2026.”

Agenda Highlights

• Invest in Workforce Development

• • • Expand Career & Technical Education (CTE) across K-12 schools to better align student skills with employer needs.
    • Promote work-based learning (internships, apprenticeships) by supporting legislation to reduce liability for employers and incentivize participation. 
    • Support adult learning through Tennessee Reconnect and other programs so more Tennesseans can earn credentials or degrees.

• Maintain a Pro-Business, Competitive Tax & Regulatory Framework

• • • Advocate for tax policies that attract and retain businesses while minimizing undue regulatory burdens.
    • Encourage incentive programs that reward capital investment and job creation, especially in growth industries.

• Foster Innovation & Emerging Industry Growth

• • • Back investments in digital infrastructure and broadband to support new technology businesses.
    • Promote R&D and collaboration between businesses, higher education, and public institutions to drive growth in sectors like biotech, advanced manufacturing, and clean tech.

• Modernize Infrastructure & Transportation

• • • Support permanent and sustainable funding streams for critical transportation projects that improve freight mobility and reduce congestion.
    • Advance policies that support the deployment of infrastructure assets needed to support continued economic growth in Tennessee, including in surface transportation, energy, solid waste, and water.

• Strengthen Manufacturing & Industrial Capacity

• • • Advocate for incentives and policies that help manufacturers scale and innovate, including tax credits and regulatory certainty. 
    • Support workforce training programs tailored to modern manufacturing needs, helping companies fill high-skill roles.

• Improve Health Care Access & Affordability for Employers

• • Work toward reforms that reduce health care costs for businesses while expanding access for Tennessee’s workforce.
  • Support initiatives that encourage preventative care, mental health support, and cost-effective delivery models.

For the full 2026 Legislative Agenda, please visit the Tennessee Chamber website.