Tennessee Senate reviews foreclosure notice bill with competing amendments

The Senate Judiciary Committee convened on April 2, 2025, to discuss a significant bill concerning foreclosure notices in Tennessee. The meeting focused on the proposed legislation that aims to modify the requirements for publishing foreclosure notices, a topic that has seen extensive negotiation between banking representatives and newspaper associations.

The bill, which has already passed through the Senate Commerce Committee, seeks to reduce the number of required newspaper publications for foreclosure notices from three to two, and eventually to one after a two-year period. This change is intended to modernize the foreclosure process and align it with existing laws governing tax sales, which currently only require one publication.

During the meeting, an amendment known as 68 98 was introduced, which would transition the requirement for paper notices and include online postings. The amendment was met with mixed reactions. Senator Rose motioned to adopt the amendment, which was seconded by Senator Hartzberger. The committee voted in favor of the amendment, with discussions highlighting the implications for public access to foreclosure information.

Mark Milsaps, representing the Tennessee Press Association, voiced strong opposition to the amendment, arguing that reducing the number of print notices would limit public awareness, particularly for those without reliable internet access. He emphasized the importance of print media in local communities and raised concerns about the undefined nature of third-party posting companies that could potentially handle online notices.

Dave Gould, from Main Street Media of Tennessee, supported a compromise amendment that would maintain two print postings while allowing for free online postings. He argued that this approach would ensure greater visibility for foreclosure notices and better serve communities that rely on local newspapers for information.

Amy Hazlett, representing the Tennessee Bankers Association, defended the proposed changes, asserting that they would not negatively impact homeowners facing foreclosure. She noted that homeowners would still receive direct notifications via certified mail and emphasized that the bill would provide a more cost-effective method for public notice.

The committee concluded the meeting with a clear divide between the interests of the banking sector and those of the newspaper industry, setting the stage for further discussions on the amendments and the overall direction of the legislation. The next steps will involve continued negotiations to address the concerns raised by both sides as the bill progresses through the legislative process.