Tennessee House Bill HB1221

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/23
• Refer: 2/2/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 3 and Title 4, relative to reports to the general assembly.

Note

Overall, HB1221 represents an effort to strengthen government accountability and responsiveness to demographic realities within the state. Its implementation would serve as a test of Tennessee’s commitment to transparency and equitable practices in its dealings and contracting processes.

Impact

If enacted, HB1221 is anticipated to influence how various state departments compile and present their reports. By mandating demographic data inclusion, the bill will likely lead to improved insights into how state resources are allocated across different population groups. This could help policymakers identify disparities and better address the needs of underrepresented communities in Tennessee, particularly in sectors like labor and procurement, where demographic trends can be crucial for addressing equity in state contracting and employment opportunities.

Summary

House Bill 1221 aims to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated regarding the reporting requirements to the General Assembly. Specifically, it seeks to ensure that reports related to procurement, unemployment, labor, and state contracting include a component detailing relevant demographic information. This requirement introduces a new layer of accountability by ensuring that demographic considerations are integrated into the reporting process associated with state operations. Advocates argue that this will enhance transparency and support informed policymaking, reflecting the diverse needs of Tennessee's populations.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB1221 include concerns about the potential administrative burden this requirement may place on state agencies tasked with compiling comprehensive demographic reports. Opponents might argue that the necessity of collecting and analyzing demographic data could divert resources and focus away from other critical state functions. Additionally, there may be debates about the effectiveness of demographic data in truly reflecting the needs of communities, and whether the measure effectively translates into improved outcomes for those groups.