TN HB1451

Every Tennessee county must establish an ethics commission before January 1, 2027, to protect government integrity and prevent abuse.

Each commission consists of 6 members: 2 appointed by the county mayor and 4 by the county legislative body, with equal representation from majority and minority parties.

Commissioners must be at least 30 years old, Tennessee residents for 5+ years, registered voters, have no felony convictions, and cannot hold county office or be candidates for county office.

Commissions have authority to investigate ethics complaints, subpoena witnesses and records, conduct hearings, issue advisory opinions, and seek injunctive relief in court for continuing violations.

Criminal violations discovered during investigations must be referred to appropriate law enforcement agencies.