Tennessee House Bill HB1340

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/23
• Refer: 2/2/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 2, relative to state executive committees.

Impact

The passage of HB 1340 is expected to have significant implications for the operation of state executive committees. By establishing a defined timeline for filling vacancies, the bill aims to streamline the decision-making process and ensure that these committees can function optimally without prolonged gaps in leadership. This change could lead to more efficient local governance and an improved ability for committees to respond to immediate needs within their jurisdictions.

Summary

House Bill 1340 proposes an amendment to the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Title 2, which pertains to state executive committees. The bill aims to provide a clear guideline for filling vacancies on these committees. According to the proposed law, any vacancy occurring on a state executive committee must be filled at the next scheduled meeting of that committee, unless the next regular election taking place in August occurs prior to this meeting. This amendment seeks to enhance the procedural consistency regarding the management of vacancies within these committees.

Sentiment

General sentiment surrounding HB 1340 appears to be neutral to positive, focusing on the importance of procedural clarity in governmental functions. Supporters argue that the bill improves organization within state committees and reinforces accountability to the electorate. However, as with any legislative change, there could be underlying apprehension regarding its implementation and the potential consequences it may hold for existing practices.

Contention

While HB 1340 does not appear to have intense contention associated with it, discussions may arise regarding how effectively the amendment addresses existing challenges related to vacancies on state executive committees. Some stakeholders may question whether the mandated timeline is sufficient or if it adequately accounts for various scenarios that could arise, such as circumstances surrounding urgent vacancies or elections that closely follow the vacancy occurrence.