Tennessee House Bill HJR0685

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 11/15/23
• Refer: 1/10/24
• Refer: 2/28/24
• Refer: 3/12/24

Caption

A RESOLUTION to propose an amendment to Article VII of the Constitution of Tennessee, to provide for duties for the office of Sheriff, Trustee, Register of Deeds, County Clerk, and Property Assessor.

Impact

The resolution, if passed, will result in a significant clarification of the powers and responsibilities assigned to these county officials. For example, the proposed duties for the Sheriff include acting as conservators of the peace, handling law enforcement matters, maintaining jails, and managing other law enforcement duties traditionally accorded to the office. Similarly, the roles of other county officials such as the County Clerk and Trustee will be clearly delineated, which may improve accountability and governance at the county level. This amendment is a step toward reinforcing the essential operations of local governance and law enforcement powers.

Summary

HJR0685 is a resolution proposed to amend Article VII of the Constitution of Tennessee. The amendment aims to define and outline the duties of key county officials, including the Sheriff, Trustee, Register of Deeds, County Clerk, and Property Assessor. It establishes a framework for the election and responsibilities of these officers, seeking to ensure that qualified voters have a clear understanding of the roles and functions within their local government. This legislative effort reflects an intent to streamline governance and clarify the functions of county officials within the state framework.

Contention

While HJR0685 primarily organizes and precisely defines duties, there may be concerns regarding the implications of such an amendment. Some stakeholders might view this as an opportunity to reinforce executive powers at the county level, particularly for the Sheriff's office, potentially raising questions about oversight and accountability. Others may see the amendment as essential for maintaining clear administrative functions within counties, contributing to a more structured approach to local governance. As discussions proceed, balancing the authority of county officials with community oversight and protections will likely emerge as a focal point in the legislative debate.