Sen. Campbell Exposes GOP’s Alleged Billion-Dollar Refund Scheme

NASHVILLE—Sen. Heidi Campbell, D-Nashville, today urged taxpayers to investigate the beneficiaries of Gov. Bill Lee's extensive corporate tax refund initiative. This scheme, part of a law sanctioned for 2024, permits the state to distribute up to $1.5 billion in franchise tax "refunds" to affluent corporations. Accompanying this measure is an unprecedented annual tax reduction for these companies. Beginning May 31 for a limited time of 30 days, the Department of Revenue will reveal the identities of the businesses receiving taxpayer-funded checks. This moment highlights Tennessee's leaders' preference for wealthy entities over struggling families. Campbell's statement emphasizes the dire consequences of expansive tax breaks, noting a substantial budget shortfall while everyday citizens grapple with soaring grocery taxes and inadequate funding for essential services like education and healthcare.