Current legislative status...
As of 12/17/2025: While we have had promising conversations, we are currently seeking both a House member and a Senate member to sponsor legislation that will legalize terramation.
Legislative Background
Terramation is currently legal in 14 states, with momentum continuing to grow nationwide. In the Southeast, Georgia became the first state to legalize terramation. The legislation passed both the Georgia House and Senate with near-unanimous, bipartisan support.
In conversations with the bill’s primary Senate sponsor, Senator Rick Williams (R), we learned that the legislation faced no organized opposition. The bill was introduced in February 2025 and signed into law by Governor Brian Kemp in May of the same year. It is difficult to predict whether the legislation in Tennessee will move forward easily. That is why it is important to build a coalition of Tennesseans who want this as an option when considering funeral dispositions
Nationally, legalization of terramation is widely expected to continue over the next five to ten years. By acting now, Tennessee has an opportunity to lead rather than follow—allowing Tennessee-based funeral professionals and small businesses to establish terramation services early, before the industry becomes dominated by large, out-of-state providers.
How a Bill Becomes Law in Tennessee
Simplified overview
1. Bill Introduced
A Tennessee legislator files a bill in the House or Senate. This officially starts the process. It requires both a House sponsor and a Senate sponsor.
2. First Reading
The bill is introduced to the full chamber without debate.
3. Second Reading
Following the first reading, the bill is again before the full chamber without debate. The Speaker then refers it to the appropriate standing committee.
4. Committee Review
The committee that studies the issue, hears explanations, and votes on whether it should move forward. The bill could be sent to multiple committees and/or sub-committees if warranted. (All bills that impact the State budget, will also require approval from the Finance Committee.)
5. Placed on the Calendar
If approved by committee, the bill is scheduled for debate by the full House or Senate.
6. Third Reading & Floor Vote
The full chamber debates the bill, may amend it, and votes. A majority vote is required to pass.
7. Considered by the Other Chamber
The bill goes through the same process in the other chamber (House or Senate). If differences arise, lawmakers work to agree on one final version.
8. Sent to the Governor
Once both chambers approve the same version, the bill is sent to the Governor to be signed, vetoed, or allowed to become law without a signature.
