Tennessee House Republicans voted to advance a bill that would prevent local governments from reappointing state lawmakers who were expelled due to misconduct, following high-profile expulsion proceedings against Democratic state Reps. Justin Jones and Justin Pearson. The bill raised concerns about constitutionality, with staff attorneys suggesting a constitutional amendment instead. Sponsors of the bill believe it is in line with the Tennessee Constitution.
However, concerns about government overreach and targeting of Black lawmakers have been raised. Jones and Pearson, who were expelled for calling for gun control after a school shooting, argue that the proposals are retaliatory and racist. They have criticized the proposed restrictions on expelled lawmakers, calling it unconstitutional.
In response to this, Republicans are proposing constitutional amendments that would ban lawmakers from returning to office after expulsion, with different proposals suggesting bans ranging from four years to lifelong. The Democrats dubbed the “Tennessee Three” have garnered national attention and support.
In addition to the proposed restrictions on expelled lawmakers, Republicans are also pushing forward on a bill that would limit the appearance of a candidate on the ballot for multiple offices in one election and the holding of multiple elected offices simultaneously. These moves have stirred controversy and accusations of targeting specific lawmakers.
The rules in the Tennessee House have also been changed to restrict how long lawmakers can debate bills and silence members deemed “out of order.” However, Jones has sued over his expulsion and the temporary rule that was used to silence him during a special session. These developments have raised concerns about the treatment of lawmakers and the limits on free speech within the state legislature.
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