Tennessee Senate Bill SB2634

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 2; Title 3; Title 4 and Title 39, relative to the filling of vacancies in the general assembly by local legislative bodies.

Impact

The impact of SB2634 is significant as it alters existing laws concerning the election of successors in the general assembly. By explicitly prohibiting the reelection of expelled members, the bill aims to foster accountability and maintain standards within legislative bodies. This amendment to the law sends a clear message that disorderly behavior will have consequences that extend beyond immediate expulsion, potentially influencing the conduct of sitting legislators and the decisions of local bodies in succession planning.

Summary

Senate Bill 2634 proposes an amendment to the Tennessee Code Annotated, particularly targeting the process for filling vacancies in the general assembly. The bill stipulates that if a local legislative body is tasked with electing a successor to fill a vacant seat, and that vacancy arose due to the expulsion of a member for misconduct, the expelled member cannot be chosen as the successor. This provision is intended to uphold the integrity of the legislative process by preventing individuals expelled for disorderly behavior from being reinstated through local elections.

Contention

There may be notable points of contention regarding the language of the bill and its implications on local governance. Supporters advocate that the measure reinforces ethical standards and prevents individuals who exhibit questionable behavior from returning to positions of power. On the other hand, opponents could argue that this provision might undermine local autonomy and the ability of constituents to elect their preferred representatives. Discussions will likely involve balancing the desire for integrity in governance with respect for democratic processes at the local level.