Senate Bill 1231 amends Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 4-1-422, to establish restrictions on the adoption and implementation of policy recommendations from international policymaking organizations, particularly those associated with the United Nations. The bill defines "international policymaking organization" and "political subdivision," and explicitly prohibits the state and its political subdivisions from enacting policies that infringe upon private property rights or constitutional rights based on recommendations from such organizations. It specifically mentions several UN initiatives, including "Agenda 21" and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, as examples of policies that cannot be adopted if they contravene U.S. or Tennessee constitutional principles.

Additionally, the bill outlines enforcement mechanisms, allowing individuals to bring private causes of action against the state or political subdivisions for violations. Courts are empowered to award damages, including punitive damages, and to issue writs of mandamus to ensure compliance with the law. Violations by officials or public servants are classified as official oppression, and any contracts or agreements found to be in violation of this section are deemed null and void. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and applies to contracts entered into, renewed, or amended after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 4-1-422