Bill > HB0562

This bill amends Tennessee law to restrict how state and local governments can regulate businesses during a declared state of emergency. Specifically, the bill defines a "lawful occupation" as any legal profession or business and prohibits political subdivisions or public officials from categorizing such occupations as "non-essential" or preventing them from operating during an emergency. The bill provides important protections for businesses, allowing them to continue operating even during emergency situations like a pandemic. If a political subdivision or public official violates this restriction, the affected business can file a civil lawsuit to seek damages or a declaratory judgment. Moreover, the public official who violated the restriction could be personally liable for such actions. The law would also require courts to award litigation costs and attorneys' fees to businesses that successfully prove a violation. The bill will take effect on July 1, 2025, and will apply to any prohibited conduct occurring on or after that date. The legislation does not protect businesses that are operating in violation of state or federal law.

Government Affairs, Labor and Employment

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB0562&ga=114