Bill > SB1021

This bill amends Tennessee Code Annotated to require public higher education institutions to submit their annual foreign gifts and contracts disclosure report not only to existing entities like the department of safety, but also to the general assembly. Specifically, the bill modifies Section 49-7-1804(f) by adding the general assembly to the list of entities that must receive these reports. Foreign gifts and contracts disclosures are important transparency measures that help track potential foreign influence or funding in higher education institutions. The change means that the Tennessee state legislature will now directly receive these annual reports, allowing for more direct legislative oversight of foreign funding sources at public colleges and universities in the state. The bill will take effect immediately upon becoming law, as stated in Section 2, with the justification that it serves the public welfare.