Bill > SB0027

This bill amends Tennessee's emergency powers law to place additional constraints on the governor's ability to issue executive orders during a state of emergency. Specifically, the bill clarifies that any executive orders, proclamations, or rules issued by the governor during an emergency cannot contradict the Tennessee State Constitution. The legislation also limits the governor's ability to suspend procedural laws or regulations, ensuring that the executive cannot broadly override existing state procedures except in very narrow circumstances. The bill modifies two key sections of the state's emergency management statutes, Section 58-2-107(a)(2) and Section 58-2-107(e)(1), to explicitly state that emergency orders must not conflict with constitutional provisions and to more tightly define when procedural laws can be suspended. By implementing these restrictions, the bill aims to provide clearer boundaries on gubernatorial emergency powers, preventing potential overreach while still allowing necessary flexibility during crisis situations. The legislation takes effect immediately upon becoming law, reflecting the state legislature's intent to provide timely guidance on the scope of emergency executive authority.

Government Affairs

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SB0027&ga=114