Tennessee House Bill HB2414

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 2, relative to elections.

Impact

If enacted, these amendments would recalibrate how election-related activities are managed in Tennessee, potentially leading to more efficient electoral procedures. The shortened timelines could result in quicker resolutions and actions related to the electoral process, which supporters may argue will enhance voter participation and facilitate smoother election preparations. However, these changes might also pressure candidates and election officials to comply with tighter deadlines, thus posing challenges during election seasons.

Summary

House Bill 2414 aims to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Title 2, which governs the state's election processes. This bill proposes to adjust the timelines associated with various election-related activities, significantly shortening the notice periods for different filing and electoral actions. For example, the bill changes the timeframe for certain submissions from thirty days to fifteen days, and it also amends additional related dates to reflect similar reductions. The objective of this bill appears to streamline election procedures and reduce the waiting time for election-related processes.

Contention

The proposed changes to the election timelines could provoke discussions on their implications for election integrity and accessibility. Critics may raise concerns that reducing submission periods could lead to increased errors or omissions in election filings, which could undermine the electoral process. Furthermore, the alterations may disproportionately affect candidates who need more time to prepare their campaigns or navigate the electoral landscape, particularly for new or underfunded candidates.