Bill > HB1068

This bill establishes a new Community-Based Organizations (CBO) Grant Program within the Tennessee Department of Human Services, creating a dedicated grant fund to support nonprofit organizations that serve communities in areas such as education, public health, housing, social issues, and economic development. The program will create a nine-member Community Grant Advisory Board appointed by the governor, speaker of the senate, and speaker of the house, with members representing various sectors including government, nonprofit leadership, and different geographic regions of Tennessee. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits with at least five years of community service, and will be able to receive grants ranging from $10,000 to $100,000 based on their scope, impact, and financial need. The bill recommends an initial appropriation of $1 million in fiscal year 2025-2026 and requires the board to establish application guidelines, prioritizing projects with community-driven solutions and led by members of the populations they serve. The board must submit annual reports to legislative committees, conduct site visits, and ensure grant recipients provide quarterly progress reports. Funding will be managed through a special account within the state general fund, with unspent funds carried forward and invested, and the ultimate goal of supporting and strengthening community-based organizations across Tennessee.

Health and Social Services

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB1068&ga=114