Tennessee Eyes NICS Bill The FBI would replace the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation in performing background checks on firearm purchases under a bill being considered by Tennessee lawmakers, reports The Tennessean. The bill's sponsor, Senate Majority Leader Ron Ramsey, estimates the switch would save taxpayers about $2.1 million. The TBI charges firearms retailers a $10 fee for a background check, while the FBI provides checks for free through its National Instant Background Check System (NICS). "There are 38 states that go straight to the FBI and don't charge a fee," Ramsey said. He said the bill could be on the Senate floor as early as this week. The bill is supported by NSSF and the National Association of Firearms Retailers (NAFR).