Bill > SB1958

This bill removes the ability for individuals to sue for certain types of relief, specifically seeking "declaratory and injunctive relief" (which means asking a court to declare something legal or illegal and to order someone to do or stop doing something), when challenging the legality or constitutionality of actions taken by the state government itself. However, it creates a new pathway for individuals to seek this type of relief against a "political subdivision," which refers to local government entities like cities, counties, or utility districts, if they believe a local government action is illegal or unconstitutional. Importantly, this bill does not prevent people from pursuing other legal actions or from suing the government in cases where sovereign immunity (the principle that governments cannot be sued without their consent) has been waived, especially when trying to uphold rights guaranteed by the Tennessee or U.S. Constitutions.