Tennessee House Bill HB2040

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/24
• Refer: 1/25/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8, Chapter 30, relative to state employment.

Impact

If enacted, HB2040 would amend existing laws governing state employment, effectively restricting the rights of employees who are found guilty of serious misconduct. Notably, those terminated under the conditions outlined in the bill would lose their rights to appeal their terminations under normal proceedings, although they may pursue a contested case hearing under the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act. This aspect of the bill signals a significant change in how disciplinary measures are handled within state employment, aiming to bolster integrity and trust in public service.

Summary

House Bill 2040 proposes amendments to the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically focusing on state employment standards regarding termination. The bill aims to provide a clear framework whereby state employees can be terminated immediately for serious offenses such as perjury or falsifying documents, as well as failing to report illegal acts or suspected abuses within their department. This change emphasizes accountability within state employment, ensuring adherence to ethical standards expected of public servants.

Contention

The potential passage of HB2040 may spark debates about due process rights for state employees. Critics may argue that removing the appeal process for terminations could lead to unjust dismissals without adequate recourse for affected employees. Others might express concerns over the broad application of what constitutes serious misconduct, which could allow for subjective interpretations by supervisors. Such contention raises questions about the balance between enforcing ethical behavior in state employment and safeguarding employee rights.