House Bill 132 amends Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 58-2-107, to enhance the oversight of the governor's emergency management powers. The bill introduces new subsections that prohibit the governor from issuing proclamations or executive orders that infringe upon the rights of citizens as outlined in the Tennessee Declaration of Rights and the U.S. Bill of Rights. Additionally, it establishes a process for the General Assembly to terminate, renew, or extend a state of emergency declared by the governor. If the General Assembly is not in session, an ad hoc legislative council, composed of key legislative leaders, can convene to extend the state of emergency for up to thirty days by majority vote.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the existing language regarding the duration of a state of emergency, ensuring that it cannot last longer than thirty days without renewal by the General Assembly or the legislative council. This change aims to provide a system of checks and balances on the governor's emergency powers, ensuring legislative involvement in the management of emergencies. The act will take effect upon becoming law and applies to states of emergency declared on or after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 58-2-107, 58-2-107(b)(2)