Tennessee Code Title 2. Elections § 2-19-203

(b)(1) As used in this subsection (b), unless the context otherwise requires, “contribution” means any advance, conveyance, deposit, distribution, transfer of funds, loan, loan guaranty, payment, gift, or subscription, of money or thing of value, including, but not limited to, use of a facility or provision of personal services, for use on behalf of any candidate for political office, or for any political purpose or campaign expense.

(2) It is unlawful knowingly to solicit, accept, or collect, directly or indirectly, any contribution from a public officer or employee if the solicitor or the solicitor's principal is, directly or indirectly, in a supervisory capacity over such officer or employee or is otherwise able to control the retention, promotion, demotion, or terms or conditions of employment of such officer or employee.

(3) This subsection (b) shall not be construed to prevent voluntary contributions from political action committees and associations of public officers and/or employees.