A panel of judges has overturned a 2023 state law passed by Tennessee Republicans that would have cut the size of Nashville’s Metro Council in half. This decision is part of a series of court defeats for laws passed last year to limit Nashville’s autonomy, following the rejection of a proposal to host the 2024 Republican National Convention. The judges ruled that the law, which aimed to reduce the council size to 20 members, was unconstitutional as it targeted only Nashville and did not require approval from local voters or the metro council.
Nashville has operated with a 40-member council since 1963, and Mayor Freddie O’Connell welcomed the ruling, emphasizing voters’ preference for a larger council. The law specifically targeting city or city-county governments raised concerns about government interference in local affairs. The state is reviewing the ruling and will decide on next steps shortly, with the possibility of an appeal.
This ruling follows previous court decisions that struck down other laws targeting Nashville, including one regarding the local fairgrounds speedway. The state’s attempt to take over the Nashville International Airport’s board and professional sports facilities has also faced legal challenges. The ongoing legal battles highlight the tensions between state lawmakers and local leaders in Nashville, particularly surrounding issues of autonomy and governance.
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