Tennessee Senate Bill SB2904

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 10, Chapter 7 and Title 39, relative to open records.

Impact

This legislation might have implications for various state agencies and local governments regarding their record-keeping practices. By shortening the retention period, entities may have to adjust their administrative processes to comply with the new requirements, potentially leading to a quicker turnover of records. While this could improve efficiency in handling records, it may also raise concerns over the accessibility of critical information for a longer period, especially for individuals seeking to access historical records beyond the new two-month limit.

Summary

Senate Bill 2904 seeks to amend specific provisions of the Tennessee Code Annotated regarding open records, particularly focusing on the timeframe for retaining certain types of records. The bill proposes to modify the existing retention period from three months to two months, which directly impacts how public records are managed and accessed by individuals. Such a change is considered to streamline the process of maintaining open records and ensuring their availability to the public within a reduced timeframe, enhancing transparency in government operations.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SB2904 likely revolve around the balance between efficiency in government operations and the public’s right to access information. Supporters of the bill may argue that reducing the retention period aligns with modern digital practices and reduces unnecessary storage burdens for government entities. Conversely, opponents may express concern that limiting the retention of open records could hinder transparency and make it more challenging for citizens to obtain information essential for accountability and oversight.