Tennessee House Bill HB1023

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/23
• Refer: 2/2/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 11 and Title 12, relative to historical relics.

Impact

If enacted, the bill would significantly alter the relationship between state-managed historical artifacts and private organizations. By directing non-display items to the Sons of Confederate Veterans, the bill emphasizes a preference for private management of historical artifacts related to the Confederacy. It mandates that taxpayer funds cannot be used for the transfer process, placing the financial burden on the organization itself, which may raise questions about the long-term care of these artifacts and whether adequate resources will be provided for their preservation.

Summary

House Bill 1023 seeks to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated specifically regarding the transfer of historical relics connected to the Confederate States of America from the state museum to the Sons of Confederate Veterans organization. The bill stipulates that items not currently on display, including a variety of artifacts and historical items, are to be transferred to the custody of this nonprofit organization. Proponents of the bill argue that it allows for better management and preservation of these items by a dedicated group that honors their historical significance.

Sentiment

The sentiment among legislators and advocacy groups appears to be mixed. Supporters view HB1023 as a necessary step to ensure the preservation of Confederate history and artifacts, while critics express concern that this initiative could be interpreted as an endorsement of the values associated with the Confederacy. Historically, the legacy of Confederate symbols has been contentious, and this bill may intensify debates regarding the interpretation and presentation of Civil War history in public spaces.

Contention

Notably, one point of contention within discussions regarding HB1023 pertains to the potential for disputes over ownership of artifacts after their transfer to the Sons of Confederate Veterans. The bill specifies that any ownership disputes must be resolved by a designated legislative committee, which raises concerns about how such situations would be handled and the implications for the public's access to these historical items. Additionally, the bill does not allow for the transfer of certain iconic items, like the bust of Nathan Bedford Forrest, indicating a nuanced approach to the management of historical relics.