Tenn. Code Ann. § 41-1-409: Construction of prison facilities

If the department is planning the construction of additional state prison facilities, whether using inmate labor or otherwise, the commissioner shall determine if the requirements of applicable building or fire codes would compel additional expenses but are not necessary for the health or safety of the inmate occupants of the facility. The commissioner shall present the determinations to the state building commission, which shall approve or disapprove them.