Tennessee Senate Bill SB1713

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/15/26
• Engrossed: 3/12/26
• Enrolled: 4/30/26
• Passed: 5/22/26
• Chaptered: 5/27/26

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 5; Title 6; Title 7 and Title 49, relative to discriminatory preferences.

Impact

The introduction of SB1713 represents a significant change in compliance and reporting mechanisms for state and local government entities in Tennessee. By requiring formal attestations of compliance, the bill seeks to ensure adherence to specific regulations concerning discriminatory practices. This could enhance accountability among governmental bodies and create a more standardized approach to compliance across different levels of government.

Summary

Senate Bill 1713 aims to amend various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated related to discriminatory preferences, establishing new requirements for government agencies at multiple levels. This legislation mandates that the executive heads of state departments, county governments, municipal governments, metropolitan governments, and public institutions of higher education must submit an annual attestation of compliance with specified standards to the comptroller of the treasury. This requirement will begin on January 1, 2027, and continue annually thereafter.

Contention

There are notable points of contention surrounding SB1713, particularly regarding its implications for local control and the administrative burden it may impose on smaller municipalities or counties. Opponents may argue that the bill could lead to one-size-fits-all compliance measures that don't consider the unique circumstances of local governments. Supporters, however, contend that the bill is necessary to create a more equitable and just system that prevents discrimination in state operations.

Overall_assessment

Overall, SB1713 seeks to balance the need for governmental accountability with the necessity of preventing discriminatory practices within state operations. As it stands, the bill has the potential to foster greater transparency, though it may also face resistance based on concerns over practical implementation and local governance autonomy.