Bill > HB0324

This bill amends Tennessee's emergency management laws to place constitutional limits on the governor's emergency powers. Specifically, the bill modifies existing statutes to explicitly state that during a state of emergency, the governor cannot issue executive orders, proclamations, or rules that conflict with the Tennessee Constitution. The bill also restricts the governor's ability to suspend procedural laws and regulations during an emergency, limiting this power to situations where strict compliance would prevent or hinder necessary emergency response actions. The bill maintains the governor's authority to issue executive orders with the force of law during emergencies, but now clearly defines that such orders cannot override constitutional provisions. This legislation appears aimed at providing clearer boundaries to gubernatorial emergency powers, ensuring that even during crisis situations, the fundamental legal and constitutional protections remain intact. The changes will take effect immediately upon becoming law, as determined by the Tennessee General Assembly.

Government Affairs, Labor and Employment

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB0324&ga=114