Tennessee House Bill HR0064

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/3/23

Caption

A RESOLUTION to expel Gloria Johnson from her seat as a member of the House of Representatives of the One Hundred Thirteenth General Assembly of the State of Tennessee elected by the Ninetieth Representative District.

Impact

If adopted, HR0064 could set a precedent for how disorderly conduct is addressed within the Tennessee House of Representatives. It reflects the powers endowed upon the legislative body as outlined in Article II, Section 12 of the Tennessee Constitution, allowing for the expulsion of members under certain conditions. The resolution reinforces the expectation of decorum required from all House members and illustrates the consequences of failing to adhere to such standards. This could result in increased scrutiny on member behavior and potential reforms in how disruptive actions are managed in future sessions.

Summary

House Resolution 64 (HR0064) seeks the expulsion of Representative Gloria Johnson from the House of Representatives of the One Hundred Thirteenth General Assembly of Tennessee. The resolution is based on actions taken by Johnson and her colleagues during a House Floor Session on March 30, 2023, where they exhibited disruptive behavior such as shouting and using a bullhorn. The misconduct was described as disorderly and against the expectations of decorum within the legislative body, prompting the need for disciplinary actions as having dire implications on the House's integrity and functioning.

Contention

The resolution is contentious as it involves the principles of legislative discipline and the balancing act of maintaining order while allowing for freedom of expression in the legislative arena. Critics may argue that expelling a member for protest actions may stifle legitimate dissent and limit the ability of representatives to engage with their constituents' concerns. Supporters of the resolution, however, maintain that maintaining order is essential for effective governance, with the view that the integrity of the legislative process must be upheld.