- 2023, Elections
Extends voting rights to members of an LLC in certain voting precincts.
HB 169 / SB 176
Bill Description
Election Laws – As introduced, authorizes up to two members of an LLC that owns property in a city to vote in the city’s elections if the city’s charter provides nonresident property owners voting rights.
Bill Sponsors
Rep. Dave Wright
Sen. Becky Massey
Bill Co-Sponsors
None
TLRC Statement on Bill
This bill would authorize up to two members of an LLC that owns property in a city to vote in the city’s elections if the city’s charter provides nonresident property owners voting rights.
This is an open door to zoning issues that potentially allow for business owners that live elsewhere to influence local elections. The rights of voters residing in a precinct should be protected.
Further, this bill is wholly unconstitutional. Per Article IV, Section 1 of the Tennessee Constitution, the legislature is given explicit authority only to make law allowing voters to vote in the precincts in which they reside, not own a business. No matter the intent, we must stand firm on our constitution.
Vote Result:
Failed
TLRC Position:
OPPOSE
