The bill would funnel millions of sales tax dollars from Music City Center’s tourism development zone to the East Bank Development Authority, which could use the funds for high-cost infrastructure projects. The legislation would also create a state board to oversee the funds, which would be made up of nine members, with two being appointed by the speaker of the House, two by the speaker of the Senate and two by the governor. The Nashville mayor or an appointee, the Music City Center president and the Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp president would also sit on the board.
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State lawmakers on the final day of the legislative session, April 23, 2026
Photo: Hamilton Matthew Masters
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State House Speaker Cameron Sexton on the final day of the legislative session, April 23, 2026
Photo: Hamilton Matthew Masters
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Lawmakers on the final day of the legislative session, April 23, 2026
Photo: Hamilton Matthew Masters
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Gov. Bill Lee, joined by Republican leadership, speaks to press on the final day of the legislative session, April 23, 2026
Photo: Hamilton Matthew Masters
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