In a recent development, Republicans in the Tennessee House voted to advance a bill that would prevent local governments from reappointing state lawmakers who were expelled due to behavior, following the expulsion of Democratic state Reps. Justin Jones and Justin Pearson last April. The proposed bill aims to bar reappointments of expelled lawmakers, such as Jones and Pearson, who were quickly reinstated. Despite concerns about the bill’s constitutionality raised by a legislative staff attorney, Rep. Johnny Garrett, the sponsor of the bill, asserted that it aligns with the Tennessee Constitution.
Following the contentious expulsion of Jones and Pearson, who had protested for gun control after a school shooting, both of whom are young Black lawmakers, lawmakers are now considering tougher restrictions. However, the bill is expected to face further scrutiny in the Senate. Additionally, Republicans are proposing constitutional amendments to ban expelled lawmakers from returning to office, with the possibilities of a four-year or lifelong ban.
These developments have sparked controversy and tension within the Tennessee Legislature, with Democrats arguing against what they perceive as targeted retaliation. Despite facing criticism and being voted out of order during debates, lawmakers like Jones, Pearson, and Johnson are continuing to speak out against what they see as government overreach. The events have also led to the installation of new rules limiting debate time and restricting lawmakers deemed “out of order” from speaking. As tensions persist, the political landscape in Tennessee continues to be shaped by these ongoing power struggles and debates.
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