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Senate OKs transfer of James K. Polk home to Tennessee Historical Commission
Summary
Senate Bill 599 passed on final consideration to transfer ownership of the James K. Polk home in Columbia from the James K. Polk Association to the Tennessee Historical Commission; the association will continue caretaking duties. The bill passed 30‑2 after a committee amendment.
The Tennessee Senate on final consideration approved Senate Bill 599 to transfer the James K. Polk home in Columbia from the James K. Polk Association to the Tennessee Historical Commission. Senator Hensley, sponsor on the floor, told the chamber the transfer would consolidate state ownership and allow the Historical Commission to formally own and maintain the property while the Association continues its caretaking role.
Senator Hensley said the home "was given to the state back in 1929" and described the change as allowing the Tennessee Historical Commission to own all adjacent properties that it already maintains. A committee amendment that clarified the bill's provisions was adopted on the floor; the measure passed on a recorded vote with Ayes 30, Nays 2.
Supporters described the change as preserving the historic site and ensuring consistent stewardship; no floor opponents were recorded. The bill was taken up under third and final consideration and passed as amended.
