Tennessee House Bill HB2114

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/24
• Refer: 1/29/24
• Refer: 2/20/24
• Refer: 3/20/24
• Engrossed: 4/2/24
• Enrolled: 4/10/24
• Passed: 4/23/24
• Chaptered: 5/1/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 1 and Title 8, Chapter 44, relative to public notices.

Impact

If enacted, HB 2114 could significantly change the landscape of how legal notices are disseminated in Tennessee. The expansion to include reputable websites is seen as a move towards modernizing public notice practices, reflecting the shift in how individuals consume news. Proponents argue that this will increase transparency and ensure that the public is better informed about legal matters affecting them. The stipulations set forth in the bill aim to guarantee that only credible sources are utilized, thereby upholding the integrity of the information shared.

Summary

House Bill 2114 aims to amend the Tennessee Code concerning public notices by requiring that they be published not only in traditional newspapers but also on a qualifying news and information website. This new regulation is set to take effect on July 1, 2024. The bill outlines specific criteria for the websites that can host these legal notices, including a consistent publication history and adherence to professional journalism standards. The intent of this bill is to enhance the accessibility of public information, ensuring it reaches a broader audience through digital platforms.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB 2114 appears to be positive among supporters who appreciate the effort to adapt public notice requirements to the digital age. Advocates argue that incorporating online publications can bridge the gap for those who may not have access to traditional print media. However, there are concerns that the bill may disproportionately affect communities with fewer digital resources, highlighting debates about equitable access to this new format for public notices.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB 2114 include discussions about the financial implications for newspapers that rely on legal notice publications for revenue. Critics caution that while digital access is important, it should not come at the expense of traditional print media, which may struggle to compete in this new regulatory environment. Furthermore, the criteria set for eligible websites raise questions about who gets to decide which platforms are deemed acceptable, potentially limiting the diversity of voices in the media landscape.