Tenn. Code Ann. § 8-7-236

For purposes of this chapter, in computing annual salary increases that are tied to salary increases appropriated to state employees, it is the intention of the general assembly that the increases are to be based solely on the specific percentage increase granted by the general appropriations act to all general state employees. Adjustments to annual salary increases as provided for in this chapter that are tied to salary increases of state employees are not to be adjusted on the basis of any class compensation efforts, class compression efforts, or any other method of salary adjustments.