HB 2096 / SB 2587

This bill proposes amendments to election laws that could potentially diminish the influence of the public by consolidating authority over the purchase of voting machines within the election commission. Notably, the individuals comprising the election commission are not elected representatives and, as such, may not effectively embody the collective voice of the people. Consequently, these changes do not appear to contribute positively to the objective of ensuring secure elections in Tennessee.

Furthermore, the bill confers to a non-elected county election commission the power to select the voting machines for the county and oversee their disposal when considered obsolete. Additionally, it introduces a provision allowing the county election commission, through a majority vote, to independently enter into purchase contracts, leases, or option agreements, thus bypassing the elected governing body of the county.

In the event of the adoption or replacement of voting machines by a county election commission, the bill mandates that the governing body of a city, town, or county must determine a method of payment deemed most advantageous for the locality. This may include the issuance of bonds, certificates of indebtedness, or other obligations, creating a financial commitment that will be incumbent upon the city, town, or county, except as otherwise specified.