Tennessee Senate Bill SB0790

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 5 and Title 8, Chapter 8, relative to the enforcement of county resolutions.

Impact

The impact of SB0790 is significant for local governance in Tennessee, as it enables counties and municipalities to leverage sheriff departments for the enforcement of their resolutions and ordinances. This act would provide more autonomy to local authorities, allowing them to address specific community needs and issues with laws that are directly applicable at the local level. Given the requirement for a certified copy of such resolutions or ordinances to be filed with the sheriff and the general sessions court, the bill introduces a system of accountability and clarity that benefits both law enforcement officials and local government bodies.

Summary

Senate Bill 790 (SB0790) proposes amendments to the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically targeting Title 5 and Title 8, Chapter 8, to clarify the enforcement of county resolutions and municipal ordinances. The bill stipulates that a resolution or ordinance must be explicitly stated to be enforced by the sheriff, ensuring that counties and municipalities can have their local laws enforced by law enforcement as they see fit. This legislative amendment is crucial in formalizing the relationship between local governance and law enforcement agencies, thereby providing a clearer framework for enforcement actions.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB0790 may arise from concerns regarding the potential for an increased burden on sheriff departments, particularly in larger counties where law enforcement resources are already stretched thin. Additionally, there could be discussions around the implications for local accountability and the balance of power between local government units and state authorities. Critics may argue that enforcing many local ordinances could lead to inconsistent applications of the law, particularly in diverse jurisdictions, and could complicate the overall law enforcement landscape across the state.