Bill > HB1451

This bill mandates that every county in Tennessee establish an ethics commission by January 1, 2027, to uphold governmental integrity and prevent abuse. These commissions will consist of six members, with two appointed by the county mayor and four by the county legislative body, ensuring equal representation from the majority and minority political parties. To qualify as a commissioner, individuals must be at least 30 years old, a resident of Tennessee for five years, a registered voter, of high ethical standards, and not a convicted felon; additionally, they cannot hold public office or be closely related to someone who has run for or holds county office, or be on a political party's executive committee. The initial appointments will be staggered, with some serving two-year terms and others four-year terms, after which all terms will be four years. The commission will elect a chair annually and require four members for a quorum and for any official action, with special meetings requiring three days' written notice. These commissions will provide ethical guidance to county officials, investigate citizen complaints about their conduct, and can subpoena witnesses, issue advisory opinions, request assistance from the county attorney, hold hearings, issue orders for violations, and seek court injunctions to stop ongoing misconduct, referring any suspected criminal activity to law enforcement.