TN HB0529

Redefines "signature" for election documents to require full, legal handwritten signatures in legible English alphabetic characters, with exceptions for voters who use initials on their registration or are physically unable to write

Applies new signature requirements to nominating petitions, recall/referendum/initiative petitions, absentee ballot applications and materials, and voter registration documents

Requires petition signers to include their residential address in legible English alphabetic characters matching their voter registration card, with signatures invalidated if the address is outside the relevant precinct

Mandates county election commissions compare petition signatures to voter registration records using a "lay person" standard, prohibiting use of oral testimony or affidavits to verify signature validity

Takes effect July 1, 2025