Tenn. Code Ann. § 41-22-125: Manufacture of license plates and similar articles

(a) The TRICOR board is authorized and empowered to manufacture numbered motor vehicle registration plates, highway and street signs and other kindred articles for the purpose of supplying the requirements of the state as provided in this part, and to sell to other cities, counties and states when deemed advisable by the board.

(b) The necessary machinery and equipment shall be purchased, as all other supplies are purchased, so as to properly equip the plant, and the number of inmates necessary to operate the plant shall be employed.