Tennessee House Bill HB1840

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/24
• Refer: 1/24/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 3; Title 4; Title 8; Title 48; Title 61 and Title 62, relative to registration of foreign agents.

Impact

The bill introduces significant amendments that mandate foreign agents to provide detailed disclosures, including the nature of their political activities and financial contributions received from foreign principals. The requirements set forth by HB1840 apply retroactively to activities dating back to January 1, 2014, allowing for a comprehensive overview of foreign influence over the years. This is expected to bolster state laws on transparency and enhance officials' ability to monitor and act against unlawful foreign influence in local and state matters.

Summary

House Bill 1840 seeks to amend various titles in the Tennessee Code Annotated by establishing stricter regulations around the registration of foreign agents. The primary aim of the bill is to enhance transparency regarding individuals or entities acting on behalf of foreign principals, particularly those from countries deemed as concerns, such as China and Russia. This legislation would require agents of foreign principals to file comprehensive registration statements that detail their activities, compensation, and the nature of their relationships with foreign entities.

Contention

Despite efforts for greater accountability, HB1840 has faced concerns regarding its potential implications for free speech and the burdens placed on individuals and organizations engaged in legitimate activities. Critics argue that the bill could inadvertently restrict the operations of journalists and nonprofits conducting outreach and educational activities on behalf of foreign principals, as they might be deemed as political agents under this legislation. Thus, while the intent to curb foreign influence is clear, the balance between transparency and operational freedom is viewed as a contentious point.