On December 13, 2025, the Tennessee State Legislature made headlines by introducing a new set of antitrust and trade regulation laws aimed at promoting fair competition and protecting consumers in the state. The proposed legislation comes in response to growing concerns over monopolistic practices and unfair business practices in various industries.One of the key provisions of the proposed laws is the establishment of a new state antitrust enforcement agency to monitor and investigate potential anticompetitive behavior among businesses operating in Tennessee. This agency will have the authority to investigate mergers and acquisitions that could potentially harm competition, as well as to enforce laws against price-fixing and other anticompetitive practices.Additionally, the proposed legislation includes measures to strengthen the state's consumer protection laws, such as requiring businesses to provide clear and transparent pricing information to consumers and prohibiting deceptive marketing practices. These measures are designed to ensure that consumers are able to make informed decisions and are protected from fraudulent or misleading business practices.The new laws have received widespread support from consumer advocacy groups and small businesses, who have long been calling for stronger antitrust and trade regulation laws in Tennessee. They argue that these laws are necessary to level the playing field for small businesses and prevent larger corporations from engaging in anti-competitive behavior that harms both competition and consumers.However, the new laws have also faced opposition from some businesses and industry groups, who argue that they could stifle innovation and reduce competition in the marketplace. They claim that the regulations could create unnecessary red tape and hinder the growth of businesses in the state.Despite the opposition, the Tennessee State Legislature is expected to move forward with the proposed antitrust and trade regulation laws in the coming months. Lawmakers hope that these laws will help promote a more competitive and fair marketplace, ultimately benefiting consumers and businesses alike.