Tenn. Code Ann. § 4-3-2703: Powers and duties of department

(a) The department of disability and aging has jurisdiction over the intellectual and developmental disabilities facilities of the state, regardless of the names by which the facilities are known.

(b) The department, through its appropriate officials, has the power and duty to provide the best possible care for persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the state by improving existing facilities, by developing future facilities and programs, and by adopting a preventive program for intellectual and developmental disabilities, as provided in title 52, with control over those services and supports as set out in title 52.

(c) Licensing of these facilities is the responsibility of the department of disability and aging.