Bill > HB1698

This bill, concerning the general assembly, allows the chair of a legislative committee to require an employee of the executive branch (which includes individuals working for the governor or state departments and agencies) to take an oath before testifying, meaning they would be subject to penalties for perjury if they lie. Additionally, the chair or the executive director of the fiscal review committee (an entity that analyzes the financial impact of legislation) can require these employees to submit an affidavit, a sworn written statement, attesting to the accuracy of any documentation provided to evaluate a legislative measure or generate a fiscal note, also under penalty of perjury. If there's reasonable suspicion that an executive branch employee intentionally provided false information under oath or affidavit, the committee chair or executive director must notify the Speaker of the Senate or House of Representatives, or both, who can then refer the matter to a district attorney general for potential prosecution. Perjury under this new law would be a Class C misdemeanor, and these provisions would take effect on July 1, 2026.

Government Affairs

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB1698&ga=114