Tennessee Code Title 41. Correctional Institutions and Inmates § 41-22-127

(a)(1) The commissioner of correction, with the approval of the governor and the appropriate commissioner, is authorized and directed to employ and work at state public works projects, such as the improvement, alteration, construction, repair or maintenance of state parks and highways, those inmates who, in the commissioner of correction's judgment, will be safe, humane, practicable or desirable to work outside the prison walls.

(2) The commissioner of correction, with the approval of the governor, is authorized to employ and work such inmates as are safe and desirable to work outside the prison walls at county, city or municipal public works projects if, in the discretion of the commissioner, the county, city or municipality provides adequate supervision of inmates to ensure the safety of the general public and to prevent the escape of the inmates.

(b)(1) Any county, city or municipality desiring the use of inmates to perform public works projects shall make application to the commissioner of correction.

(3) The commissioner may grant all or any part of the number of inmates requested, may deny the application or may place specific restrictions and conditions on the use of inmates, depending on the best interests of the state.