The Tennessee Department of Commerce & Insurance’s (TDCI) Division of Regulatory Boards announced a significant achievement in 2024, processing a total of 163,496 initial or renewal professional license applications. This figure marks an increase of 8,559 applications compared to the previous year. The division also managed to process 4,467 consumer complaints, conduct 21,032 inspections, and handle 239,869 customer inquiries, achieving a customer satisfaction rate of 96.15%. Moreover, $1.938 million in civil penalties were assessed for violations of state regulations.
TDCI Commissioner Carter Lawrence highlighted the dedication of the Regulatory Boards Division in protecting and empowering professionals in Tennessee. The division licenses and regulates over 324,000 individuals through 26 programs, including the Tennessee Real Estate Commission and the Cosmetology & Barber Examiners Board, among others.
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Assistant Commissioner Reid Witcher commended the team’s commitment to reducing licensing times and maintaining quality customer service amid numerous challenges. In 2024, the division improved the average processing time for initial licensure to 12.71 days, a reduction of 6.01 days from 2023. Additionally, over 90% internet adoption was achieved through the Comprehensive Online Regulatory & Enforcement (CORE) System, enhancing the licensing experience with features like simplified attachment uploads and intuitive management tools.
The division also celebrated the first year of its Welcome Center, hosting 2,978 customer visits, and used feedback from surveys to improve the application process. New initiatives such as the Special Case Licensure Hub were introduced to cater to unique licensing scenarios and expanded credentialing options.
In leadership updates, Reid Witcher was promoted to Assistant Commissioner, while Gin Binkley and Christopher Burkhart took on roles overseeing the Tennessee State Board of Accountancy and the Board of Licensing Contractors, respectively. TDCI continues to work closely with law enforcement to strengthen consumer protection efforts.
For further information or to file a complaint, visit TDCI’s [website](https://access.cloud.commerce.tn.gov/portal/public).
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Tennessee January Revenues Surpass Budget Estimates
Tennessee’s January tax revenues exceeded budget projections, with a total of $1.97 billion collected, surpassing estimates by $23.6 million. This growth was primarily due to strong sales tax revenues from the holiday season, despite a slight shortfall in corporate tax collections. Year-to-date, tax revenues are slightly above budget, with sales taxes performing well and corporate taxes falling short. The revenue estimates for the fiscal year are based on the State Funding Board‘s consensus and remain unchanged in the latest budget proposal.