Tennessee Code Title 54. Highways, Bridges and Ferries § 54-5-143

(a) The department of transportation is directed to include the language “The Volunteer State” on all highway signs welcoming visitors to the state. The language shall be added to the signs whenever the signs are replaced or modified for another purpose.

(b) Notwithstanding any rule, regulation or law to the contrary, a city, county or metropolitan “welcome” sign erected on a state right-of-way prior to February 14, 1994, shall not be required to be removed, relocated or dismantled by the department of transportation. Nothing in this section shall be construed to preclude a city, county or metropolitan government from entering into an agreement with the department to remove, relocate or dismantle a “welcome” sign.