Tennessee Senate Bill SB2369

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 8; Title 9; Title 12 and Title 54, relative to procurement.

Impact

The implementation of SB2369 will significantly influence how public entities engage with suppliers, as it introduces a legal obligation to adhere to specific ethical procurement standards. Beginning July 1, 2024, any contracts that do not include the necessary certification will be rendered void. This measure is designed to bolster the state's stance against goods produced through forced labor, promoting transparency and accountability in state procurement processes.

Summary

Senate Bill 2369 aims to amend various titles of the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically concerning procurement regulations. The bill mandates that public entities in Tennessee must obtain a certification from companies with whom they contract for goods, declaring that these companies are not listed on the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA) Entity List. This requirement seeks to ensure compliance with federal standards aimed at prohibiting the use of forced labor in supply chains related to state contracts.

Contention

While the bill is supported by advocates for human rights and ethical business practices, there may be contention surrounding the practical implications of enforcing this requirement. Concerns may arise regarding the potential impact on small businesses that could struggle to navigate additional compliance layers or the risk of contract disputes stemming from certification validation. The challenge will be in balancing stringent enforcement with the need to ensure that local businesses are not unduly burdened by these new requirements.