House Bill 375 amends various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated to require local governments, including counties, municipalities, and metropolitan governments, to maintain documentation for fees assessed and collected that exceed five hundred dollars ($500). Each department, agency, or official responsible for these fees must provide a justification and cost basis for the fees, which will be classified as public records available for inspection upon request. Additionally, this documentation will be subject to an annual audit by the comptroller of the treasury, who may incorporate these audits into other financial audits of the respective local government.

The bill aims to enhance transparency and accountability in local government fee assessments by ensuring that justifications for significant fees are documented and accessible to the public. The new requirements will take effect on July 1, 2025, emphasizing the importance of public welfare in the legislative intent.