Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

Tennessee House Bill HB2800

Introduced

1/31/24

Refer

2/5/24

Caption

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

Impact

The implications of HB2800 extend to the enforcement of voter eligibility and the responsibilities of political parties. Political parties will be required to thoroughly vet candidates they support to ensure compliance with the eligibility criteria established by this act. Additionally, presidential electors are prohibited from voting for any candidates whose eligibility is in question until their qualifications have been verified. The bill aims to eliminate potential ambiguity regarding candidates' qualifications and to hold parties accountable for presenting eligible candidates to the electorate.

Summary

House Bill 2800, known as the 'Tennessee Ballot Access Act', seeks to amend Tennessee Code Annotated related to elections, focusing on the eligibility requirements for candidates seeking state and federal offices. This legislation mandates that all candidates provide verified proof of their eligibility, ensuring that they are constitutionally qualified before being placed on a ballot. This includes requirements such as age, citizenship status, and residency. The intent behind this bill is to enhance election integrity by assuring that only qualified candidates can run for office, thereby increasing public confidence in the electoral process.

Sentiment

Reactions to HB2800 are mixed and largely polarized. Supporters of the bill argue that enhanced eligibility verification is essential for maintaining the integrity of elections and preventing any situations where ineligible individuals could be placed on the ballot. Conversely, opponents express concerns that the strict requirements could disenfranchise legitimate candidates, potentially leading to a narrowing of political discourse. Some fear that the act may be used to exclude individuals based on ambiguous interpretations of citizenship and residency laws.

Contention

One of the notable points of contention surrounding the bill is the definition of a 'natural born citizen' as outlined within the legislation. The bill articulates a detailed interpretation that distinguishes between natural born and naturalized citizens, which could lead to legal challenges regarding its application. Critics argue that the stringent measures could lead to the disqualification of legitimate candidates and raise questions about fairness and access to political office. The legislation may prompt further discussions about the balance between ensuring election integrity and promoting inclusive political representation.