Tennessee Senate Bill SB0274

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/25
• Engrossed: 3/27/25
• Enrolled: 4/8/25
• Passed: 4/21/25
• Chaptered: 4/29/25

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 5, relative to constitutional officer duties.

Impact

The amendment to the Tennessee Code will have a direct impact on how county officials operate within the legal framework of state law. By defining the duties of each constitutional officer, the bill provides a clearer structure for government operations at the county level. This could lead to more efficient management of county resources, including law enforcement and tax collection, aligning their responsibilities more closely with contemporary needs and community expectations.

Summary

Senate Bill 0274 aims to amend the Tennessee Code concerning the duties of constitutional officers within counties. The bill explicitly designates the offices of sheriff, register, county clerk, assessor of property, and trustee as charter or constitutional officers. This change is significant as it streamlines the understanding of these offices' roles and responsibilities, highlighting their importance in local governance. The bill also outlines the specific duties associated with each office, ensuring clarity on their contributions to law enforcement, tax collection, and property assessment.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB0274 appears generally supportive among legislators who recognize the need for clarity and efficiency in local government. There is recognition that clearly defined roles and duties can help in better governance. However, there may be concerns about how changes in definition might affect the scope of power or duties of these officers, which could lead to discussions about local governance and authority.

Contention

While the bill seems to have support, there might be contention regarding the specific duties assigned to each officer. Questions could arise about the adequacy of the responsibilities outlined, such as whether they sufficiently address modern challenges in law enforcement and taxation. Additionally, there could be debates about the balance of power between state laws and the autonomous powers of local government, particularly in how these amendments could shift operational authority.