Senate Bill 317 aims to enhance transparency regarding the political activities of organizations influenced by foreign entities deemed hostile to the interests of Tennessee and the United States. The bill introduces a new part to the Tennessee Code Annotated, establishing definitions for terms such as "agent of a hostile foreign principal," "foreign-supported political organization," and "hostile foreign nation," which includes countries like China, Russia, North Korea, and Iran. It mandates that individuals acting as agents for these foreign principals must register with the Tennessee ethics commission, providing detailed information about their activities, funding sources, and affiliations. Additionally, foreign-supported political organizations are required to register and disclose their financial activities and contributions from hostile foreign entities.

The bill also outlines penalties for non-compliance with these registration and reporting requirements, allowing the Tennessee ethics commission to impose fines and refer cases to the attorney general for further action. The commission is tasked with ensuring that registered agents and organizations update their information regularly, promoting accountability and transparency in political activities influenced by foreign interests. The act is set to take effect upon becoming law, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the political landscape from foreign influence.