Tennessee House Bill HB1804

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/21/26
• Refer: 2/2/26
• Refer: 3/9/26
• Refer: 3/18/26
• Engrossed: 3/24/26
• Enrolled: 4/2/26
• Passed: 4/16/26
• Chaptered: 5/1/26

Caption

AN ACT to amend Chapter 120 of the Private Acts of 1915; as amended and rewritten by Chapter 21 of the Private Acts of 2009; Chapter 44 of the Private Acts of 2018; and any other acts amendatory thereto, relative to the Town of Mason.

Impact

The bill's changes have significant implications for the organization and functioning of the Town's governance. Among the amendments is a detailed process for handling vacancies in elected offices, and a stipulation that the Board of Mayor and Aldermen is the central legislative authority. Furthermore, the bill emphasizes the need for a well-defined budgetary framework and financial controls. The introduction of comprehensive personnel policies is also addressed, ensuring that the policies governing town employees follow state regulations.

Summary

House Bill 1804 is an act aimed at amending prior legislation regarding the governance of the Town of Mason, specifically the Private Acts of 1915. It outlines the structure and responsibilities of the local government, including specifications for the office of the Mayor and the Board of Aldermen. The bill modifies existing provisions related to election eligibility for candidates, clarifying that candidates must be residents for a minimum of six months before elections and adhering to specific qualifications.

Contention

Notable points of contention around HB1804 may arise from the centralized authority it conveys to the Board over various aspects of governance, potentially modifying the balance of power between the Mayor, the Board, and the Town Administrator. The requirement for a two-thirds vote by the Town’s legislative body for this act to have effect may also indicate a level of contention surrounding its adoption, suggesting concerns about the consolidation of power and the implications for local autonomy and responsiveness to community needs.