NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WZTV) — The Tennessee Department of Revenue has released a list of corporations that received a combined $1.5 billion in tax refunds, sparking sharp criticism from community advocates and watchdog groups. The list includes global giants like Amazon, FedEx, Nissan, and Hankook — as well as Governor Bill Lee’s family business, Lee Company.
According to advocacy coalition Tennessee For All, nearly 16,000 companies were granted refunds. Although individual amounts were not disclosed, refunds categorized as “over $10,000” could average as much as $75,000 per business. Major corporations reportedly exploited subsidiary structures to secure multiple payouts. Nissan filed for refunds under six different subsidiaries, while FedEx used thirteen.
“I think most people will be infuriated,” said Angela Wynn, a Rutherford County parent and member of Public School Strong, a partner organization of Tennessee For All. “Instead of closing loopholes so families can get a break on groceries, the majority of legislators chose more corporate giveaways.”…