Tenn. Code § 40-14-314
The administrative director is authorized, upon a determination of a need therefor and upon certification of a judge that no qualified court reporter is available to record the proceedings in any court in the judge's district, to purchase, out of money appropriated for that purpose, the recording equipment as may be necessary to carry out the purpose of this part and to formulate all necessary rules and regulations for its use, maintenance and replacement. Any certification by a judge and determination of need by the administrative director shall be reviewed not less than annually. If a qualified court reporter should become available to attend the court, it is the duty of the judge so to certify to the administrative director. Any recording equipment purchased under this section shall remain the property of the state of Tennessee and be under the direct control and supervision of the administrative director.
T.C.A. § 40-14-314