Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-20-104 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 20 / Section 2-20-104
Electronic voting systems - Rules and regulations - Testing of equipment
Status: in_force

(a) (1) All new precinct-based optical scanners purchased or leased pursuant to this chapter: (A) Shall be certified pursuant to § 2-9-110 and shall have been certified by the election assistance commission as having met the applicable voluntary voting systems guidelines. In addition, the precinct-based optical scanners shall be tested to ensure the scanners operate in accordance with the guidelines; and (B) Shall, with all relevant documentation, be made available by their vendors, at the request of the state election commission or the secretary of state for review by an independent expert, selected by the state election commission or the secretary of state, to ensure the functionality and security of its systems. (2) The state coordinator of elections shall enact necessary rules and regulations to require that all required tests are properly conducted on the precinct-based optical scanners as well as requiring a sufficient review be conducted of the precinct-based optical scanners and the relevant documentation to ensure compliance with this subsection (a). (b) Prior to each election, all precinct-based optical scanners purchased, leased or used by any county election commission pursuant to this chapter shall be subject to acceptance testing by the commission in accordance with rules and regulations promulgated by the state coordinator of elections. (c) With respect to precinct-based optical scanners purchased or leased pursuant to this chapter, vendors shall provide access to all information required by law, rule or regulation, which shall be placed in escrow with an agent designated by the secretary of state. (d) No precinct-based optical scanners used in an election in this state shall have any capability, enabled or disabled, for wireless communication of any sort. Acts 2008 , ch. 1108, §3; 2010 , ch. 612, §4; 2011 , ch. 301, § 3.
(a) (1) All new precinct-based optical scanners purchased or leased pursuant to this chapter: (A) Shall be certified pursuant to § 2-9-110 and shall have been certified by the election assistance commission as having met the applicable voluntary voting systems guidelines. In addition, the precinct-based optical scanners shall be tested to ensure the scanners operate in accordance with the guidelines; and (B) Shall, with all relevant documentation, be made available by their vendors, at the request of the state election commission or the secretary of state for review by an independent expert, selected by the state election commission or the secretary of state, to ensure the functionality and security of its systems. (2) The state coordinator of elections shall enact necessary rules and regulations to require that all required tests are properly conducted on the precinct-based optical scanners as well as requiring a sufficient review be conducted of the precinct-based optical scanners and the relevant documentation to ensure compliance with this subsection (a).
(1) All new precinct-based optical scanners purchased or leased pursuant to this chapter: (A) Shall be certified pursuant to § 2-9-110 and shall have been certified by the election assistance commission as having met the applicable voluntary voting systems guidelines. In addition, the precinct-based optical scanners shall be tested to ensure the scanners operate in accordance with the guidelines; and (B) Shall, with all relevant documentation, be made available by their vendors, at the request of the state election commission or the secretary of state for review by an independent expert, selected by the state election commission or the secretary of state, to ensure the functionality and security of its systems.
(A) Shall be certified pursuant to § 2-9-110 and shall have been certified by the election assistance commission as having met the applicable voluntary voting systems guidelines. In addition, the precinct-based optical scanners shall be tested to ensure the scanners operate in accordance with the guidelines; and
(B) Shall, with all relevant documentation, be made available by their vendors, at the request of the state election commission or the secretary of state for review by an independent expert, selected by the state election commission or the secretary of state, to ensure the functionality and security of its systems.
(2) The state coordinator of elections shall enact necessary rules and regulations to require that all required tests are properly conducted on the precinct-based optical scanners as well as requiring a sufficient review be conducted of the precinct-based optical scanners and the relevant documentation to ensure compliance with this subsection (a).
(b) Prior to each election, all precinct-based optical scanners purchased, leased or used by any county election commission pursuant to this chapter shall be subject to acceptance testing by the commission in accordance with rules and regulations promulgated by the state coordinator of elections.
(c) With respect to precinct-based optical scanners purchased or leased pursuant to this chapter, vendors shall provide access to all information required by law, rule or regulation, which shall be placed in escrow with an agent designated by the secretary of state.
(d) No precinct-based optical scanners used in an election in this state shall have any capability, enabled or disabled, for wireless communication of any sort.
Acts 2008 , ch. 1108, §3; 2010 , ch. 612, §4; 2011 , ch. 301, § 3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-7-103 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 7 / Section 2-7-103
Persons allowed in polling place
Status: in_force

(a) No person may be admitted to a polling place while the procedures required by this chapter are being carried out except election officials, voters, persons properly assisting voters, the press, poll watchers appointed under § 2-7-104 and others bearing written authorization from the county election commission. (b) Candidates may be present after the polls close. (c) No police or other law enforcement officer may come nearer to the entrance to a polling place than ten feet (10') or enter the polling place except at the request of the officer of elections or the county election commission or to make an arrest or to vote. (d) No person may go into a voting machine or a voting booth while it is occupied by a voter except as expressly authorized by this title. (e) In addition to persons authorized to be admitted to the polling place in subsection (a), a child under seventeen (17) years of age may accompany the child's parent or legal guardian into the polling place. Such child may also enter the voting machine or voting booth with such parent or guardian to observe the voting process. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-703; Acts 1995, ch. 393, § 1.
(a) No person may be admitted to a polling place while the procedures required by this chapter are being carried out except election officials, voters, persons properly assisting voters, the press, poll watchers appointed under § 2-7-104 and others bearing written authorization from the county election commission.
(b) Candidates may be present after the polls close.
(c) No police or other law enforcement officer may come nearer to the entrance to a polling place than ten feet (10') or enter the polling place except at the request of the officer of elections or the county election commission or to make an arrest or to vote.
(d) No person may go into a voting machine or a voting booth while it is occupied by a voter except as expressly authorized by this title.
(e) In addition to persons authorized to be admitted to the polling place in subsection (a), a child under seventeen (17) years of age may accompany the child's parent or legal guardian into the polling place. Such child may also enter the voting machine or voting booth with such parent or guardian to observe the voting process.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-703; Acts 1995, ch. 393, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-12-206 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 12 / Section 2-12-206
Death or resignation of precinct registrars
Status: in_force

If a precinct registrar dies, resigns or is removed, the vacancy shall be filled by appointment by the commissioners representing the same party as the registrar. The new appointee shall serve for the unexpired term of the person whom such appointee replaces. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1214.
If a precinct registrar dies, resigns or is removed, the vacancy shall be filled by appointment by the commissioners representing the same party as the registrar. The new appointee shall serve for the unexpired term of the person whom such appointee replaces.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1214.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-10-122 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 10 / Section 2-10-122
Definitions for Sections 2-10-122 - 2-10-128
Status: in_force

As used in this section and §§ 2-10-123 - 2-10-128, unless the context otherwise requires: (1) "Consulting services" with respect to an official in the legislative branch or an official in the executive branch means services to advise or assist a person or entity in influencing legislative or administrative action, as that term is defined in § 3-6-301 , relative to Tennessee state government. "Consulting services" with respect to an official in the legislative branch or an official in the executive branch also means services to advise or assist a person or entity in maintaining, applying for, soliciting or entering into a contract with the state of Tennessee. "Consulting services" does not mean the practice or business of law in connection with representation of clients by a licensed attorney in a contested case action, administrative proceeding or rule making procedure; (2) "Consulting services" with respect to an elected municipal or county official, including a member-elect of a municipal or county legislative body, means services to advise or assist a person or entity in influencing legislative or administrative action, as that term is defined in § 3-6-301 , relative to the municipality or county represented by that official. "Consulting services" with respect to an elected municipal or county official, including a member-elect of a municipal or county legislative body, also means services to advise or assist a person or entity in maintaining, applying for, soliciting or entering into a contract with the municipality or county represented by that official. "Consulting services" does not mean the practice or business of law in connection with representation of clients by a licensed attorney in a contested case action, administrative proceeding or rule making procedure; (3) "Fee, commission, or any other form of compensation" and "compensation" do not include anything of value that may be accepted under § 2-10-116 or that is identified in § 3-6-305(b) ; (4) "Official in the executive branch" means the governor, any member of the governor's staff or any person in the executive service as such term is defined in § 8-30-202 ; provided, however, that "official in the executive branch" shall not include members of boards and commissions who receive only expenses or a nominal per diem not to exceed six hundred dollars ($600) per month, unless they provide consulting services for compensation with respect to the activities of the board or commission of which they are a member; and (5) "Official in the legislative branch" has the same meaning as the term is defined in § 3-6-301 . Acts 2005, ch. 102, § 1; 2006 (1st Ex. Sess.), ch. 1, § 29.
As used in this section and §§ 2-10-123 - 2-10-128, unless the context otherwise requires:
(1) "Consulting services" with respect to an official in the legislative branch or an official in the executive branch means services to advise or assist a person or entity in influencing legislative or administrative action, as that term is defined in § 3-6-301 , relative to Tennessee state government. "Consulting services" with respect to an official in the legislative branch or an official in the executive branch also means services to advise or assist a person or entity in maintaining, applying for, soliciting or entering into a contract with the state of Tennessee. "Consulting services" does not mean the practice or business of law in connection with representation of clients by a licensed attorney in a contested case action, administrative proceeding or rule making procedure;
(2) "Consulting services" with respect to an elected municipal or county official, including a member-elect of a municipal or county legislative body, means services to advise or assist a person or entity in influencing legislative or administrative action, as that term is defined in § 3-6-301 , relative to the municipality or county represented by that official. "Consulting services" with respect to an elected municipal or county official, including a member-elect of a municipal or county legislative body, also means services to advise or assist a person or entity in maintaining, applying for, soliciting or entering into a contract with the municipality or county represented by that official. "Consulting services" does not mean the practice or business of law in connection with representation of clients by a licensed attorney in a contested case action, administrative proceeding or rule making procedure;
(3) "Fee, commission, or any other form of compensation" and "compensation" do not include anything of value that may be accepted under § 2-10-116 or that is identified in § 3-6-305(b) ;
(4) "Official in the executive branch" means the governor, any member of the governor's staff or any person in the executive service as such term is defined in § 8-30-202 ; provided, however, that "official in the executive branch" shall not include members of boards and commissions who receive only expenses or a nominal per diem not to exceed six hundred dollars ($600) per month, unless they provide consulting services for compensation with respect to the activities of the board or commission of which they are a member; and
(5) "Official in the legislative branch" has the same meaning as the term is defined in § 3-6-301 .
Acts 2005, ch. 102, § 1; 2006 (1st Ex. Sess.), ch. 1, § 29.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-13-302 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 13 / Section 2-13-302
Election of delegates to national convention
Status: in_force

On the date established in § 2-13-205 in 2004, and every four (4) years thereafter, an election will be held to elect delegates to the national conventions of all statewide political parties. Acts 1976, ch. 421, § 2; 1977, ch. 316, § 4; T.C.A., § 2-1342; Acts 1986, ch. 562, § 7; 2003, ch. 374, § 3.
On the date established in § 2-13-205 in 2004, and every four (4) years thereafter, an election will be held to elect delegates to the national conventions of all statewide political parties.
Acts 1976, ch. 421, § 2; 1977, ch. 316, § 4; T.C.A., § 2-1342; Acts 1986, ch. 562, § 7; 2003, ch. 374, § 3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-10-401 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 10 / Section 2-10-401
Short title
Status: in_force

This part shall be known and may be cited as the "Gubernatorial Inauguration Finance Disclosure Act." Acts 2001, ch. 458, § 1.
This part shall be known and may be cited as the "Gubernatorial Inauguration Finance Disclosure Act."
Acts 2001, ch. 458, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-13-310 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 13 / Section 2-13-310
Certified copies of nominating petition and declaration of delegate candidacy - Filing - Certification of names
Status: in_force

(a) Certified copies of the original nominating petition and declaration of delegate candidacy shall be filed by the secretary of state with the coordinator of elections, with the chair of the state executive committee of the candidate's party, and with the chair of the state election commission. (b) The chair of the state election commission shall no later than four-thirty p.m. (4:30 p.m.), prevailing time, on the date established in § 2-5-101(a)(3) , certify to the chair of the appropriate county election commission the names of all delegate-candidates who have qualified to have their names printed on the ballot in that county. Acts 1976, ch. 421, § 10; T.C.A., § 2-1350; Acts 1986, ch. 562, § 18; 2003 , ch. 374, § 12.
(a) Certified copies of the original nominating petition and declaration of delegate candidacy shall be filed by the secretary of state with the coordinator of elections, with the chair of the state executive committee of the candidate's party, and with the chair of the state election commission.
(b) The chair of the state election commission shall no later than four-thirty p.m. (4:30 p.m.), prevailing time, on the date established in § 2-5-101(a)(3) , certify to the chair of the appropriate county election commission the names of all delegate-candidates who have qualified to have their names printed on the ballot in that county.
Acts 1976, ch. 421, § 10; T.C.A., § 2-1350; Acts 1986, ch. 562, § 18; 2003 , ch. 374, § 12.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-7-117 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 7 / Section 2-7-117
Write-in procedure where voting machines are used
Status: in_force

(a) Where voting machines are used, any voter desiring to cast a ballot for a candidate whose name is not on the voting machine ballot may request a paper ballot to be furnished by the ballot judge. This request must be made before operating a voting machine, and a voter after receiving a paper ballot may not enter a voting machine. (b) The procedure for casting a write-in ballot in counties which use or have a C.E.S., Inc., Votomatic or other comparable punch card voting system shall be governed by rules and regulations promulgated by the coordinator of elections and the state election commission relative to the use of punch card voting systems. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-717; Acts 1988, ch. 672, § 4.
(a) Where voting machines are used, any voter desiring to cast a ballot for a candidate whose name is not on the voting machine ballot may request a paper ballot to be furnished by the ballot judge. This request must be made before operating a voting machine, and a voter after receiving a paper ballot may not enter a voting machine.
(b) The procedure for casting a write-in ballot in counties which use or have a C.E.S., Inc., Votomatic or other comparable punch card voting system shall be governed by rules and regulations promulgated by the coordinator of elections and the state election commission relative to the use of punch card voting systems.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-717; Acts 1988, ch. 672, § 4.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-1-109 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 1 / Section 2-1-109
Copies of documents - Certification
Status: in_force

(a) Whenever copies or duplicates of documents, other than tally sheets and similar election return papers, are required, they shall be legible and may be made by any copying method, including photocopying, which is commonly used in business in this state for permanent records. (b) If copies or duplicates have to be certified, they shall be certified as true copies of the original either by a person who signed the original or by the person who made the copies. The person who certifies the copies or duplicates shall indicate the capacity in which such person is certifying. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-109.
(a) Whenever copies or duplicates of documents, other than tally sheets and similar election return papers, are required, they shall be legible and may be made by any copying method, including photocopying, which is commonly used in business in this state for permanent records.
(b) If copies or duplicates have to be certified, they shall be certified as true copies of the original either by a person who signed the original or by the person who made the copies. The person who certifies the copies or duplicates shall indicate the capacity in which such person is certifying.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-109.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-6-207 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 6 / Section 2-6-207
Assistance by person convicted of voter fraud prohibited
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, a person convicted of voter fraud in any state shall not assist a person in voting by absentee ballot. Added by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 271, s 3, eff. 4/30/2019.
Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, a person convicted of voter fraud in any state shall not assist a person in voting by absentee ballot.
Added by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 271, s 3, eff. 4/30/2019.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-10-112 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 10 / Section 2-10-112
Application of outstanding balance of campaign account cannot exceed campaign contribution limits
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any other law to the contrary, any candidate who has a previous campaign account with an outstanding balance and who chooses to apply contributions to that previous campaign account, shall not exceed the campaign contribution limits in part 3 of this chapter, for the election cycle during which the candidate accepts the contribution, regardless of whether such candidate applies the amount to the previous campaign account or to the current campaign account. Under no circumstances shall the candidate exceed the contribution limits for the election cycle to which the previous campaign account with an outstanding balance applies. Acts 2006 (1st Ex. Sess.), ch. 1, § 19.
Notwithstanding any other law to the contrary, any candidate who has a previous campaign account with an outstanding balance and who chooses to apply contributions to that previous campaign account, shall not exceed the campaign contribution limits in part 3 of this chapter, for the election cycle during which the candidate accepts the contribution, regardless of whether such candidate applies the amount to the previous campaign account or to the current campaign account. Under no circumstances shall the candidate exceed the contribution limits for the election cycle to which the previous campaign account with an outstanding balance applies.
Acts 2006 (1st Ex. Sess.), ch. 1, § 19.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-19-126 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 19 / Section 2-19-126
Bribing voters
Status: in_force

It is unlawful for any person, directly or indirectly, personally or through any other person to: (1) Pay, loan, contribute, or offer or promise to pay, loan or contribute any money, property, or other valuable thing, to or for any voter, or to or for any other person, to induce such voter or any voter to vote or refrain from voting in any political convention, primary or final election of any kind or character, or to induce such voter or voters to vote or refrain from voting at any such convention, primary or final election for or against any particular person or measure, or on account of any voter having voted for or against any particular person or measure, or having gone to or remained away from the polls at any such convention, primary or final election; (2) Give, offer, or promise any place, office or employment, or promise or procure any place, office or employment, to or for any voter, or to or for any other person, in order to induce such voter to vote or refrain from voting at any convention, primary or final election, or to induce any voter at such convention or primary or final election to vote or refrain from voting for any particular person or measure; (3) Advance or pay or cause to be paid any money or other valuable thing to or for the use of any voter, or to or for the use of any other person, with the intent that the same or any part thereof shall be used in bribery at any primary or final election, or otherwise unlawfully used at, concerning, or in connection with any such primary or final election; or knowingly pay or cause to be paid any money or other valuable thing in discharge or repayment of money or other valuable thing wholly or in part expended in bribery or other unlawful use at or in connection with any such primary or final election; or (4) Advance, pay or cause to be paid, as expenses or otherwise, to or for the use of any person, any money or other valuable thing in order to induce such person or any person to work for, solicit or seek to influence votes for or against any particular person or measure, at or in connection with any convention, primary or final election; or induce such person or persons to procure, solicit or influence any voter to attend, leave, or remain away from any such convention, primary or final election; or pay or cause to be paid any money or other valuable thing to or for the use or benefit of any person in discharge or payment of or for time, labor, expenses, or services alleged to have been spent, performed, incurred, or rendered for or against any person, at or in connection with any such convention, primary or final election; provided, that this shall not include payment of expenses for soliciting attendance of any person upon party conventions, primaries, or final elections; and provided further, that nothing herein shall be construed to prohibit expenditures otherwise allowed by law. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1926.
It is unlawful for any person, directly or indirectly, personally or through any other person to:
(1) Pay, loan, contribute, or offer or promise to pay, loan or contribute any money, property, or other valuable thing, to or for any voter, or to or for any other person, to induce such voter or any voter to vote or refrain from voting in any political convention, primary or final election of any kind or character, or to induce such voter or voters to vote or refrain from voting at any such convention, primary or final election for or against any particular person or measure, or on account of any voter having voted for or against any particular person or measure, or having gone to or remained away from the polls at any such convention, primary or final election;
(2) Give, offer, or promise any place, office or employment, or promise or procure any place, office or employment, to or for any voter, or to or for any other person, in order to induce such voter to vote or refrain from voting at any convention, primary or final election, or to induce any voter at such convention or primary or final election to vote or refrain from voting for any particular person or measure;
(3) Advance or pay or cause to be paid any money or other valuable thing to or for the use of any voter, or to or for the use of any other person, with the intent that the same or any part thereof shall be used in bribery at any primary or final election, or otherwise unlawfully used at, concerning, or in connection with any such primary or final election; or knowingly pay or cause to be paid any money or other valuable thing in discharge or repayment of money or other valuable thing wholly or in part expended in bribery or other unlawful use at or in connection with any such primary or final election; or
(4) Advance, pay or cause to be paid, as expenses or otherwise, to or for the use of any person, any money or other valuable thing in order to induce such person or any person to work for, solicit or seek to influence votes for or against any particular person or measure, at or in connection with any convention, primary or final election; or induce such person or persons to procure, solicit or influence any voter to attend, leave, or remain away from any such convention, primary or final election; or pay or cause to be paid any money or other valuable thing to or for the use or benefit of any person in discharge or payment of or for time, labor, expenses, or services alleged to have been spent, performed, incurred, or rendered for or against any person, at or in connection with any such convention, primary or final election; provided, that this shall not include payment of expenses for soliciting attendance of any person upon party conventions, primaries, or final elections; and provided further, that nothing herein shall be construed to prohibit expenditures otherwise allowed by law.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1926.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-7-127 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 7 / Section 2-7-127
Closing of the polling place
Status: in_force

At the time set for the closing of the polling place, the officer of elections shall place one (1) of the election officials at the end of the line of persons waiting to vote. No other person may then get in line to vote. The polls shall be closed as soon as all persons in the line ahead of the election official have voted regardless of when the polls opened. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-727.
At the time set for the closing of the polling place, the officer of elections shall place one (1) of the election officials at the end of the line of persons waiting to vote. No other person may then get in line to vote. The polls shall be closed as soon as all persons in the line ahead of the election official have voted regardless of when the polls opened.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-727.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-9-111 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 9 / Section 2-9-111
Payment for machines
Status: in_force

The governing body of a city, town or county may adopt voting machines and, upon the adoption and purchase of voting machines, shall provide for payment for the machines in the way it deems for the best interest of the locality and may for that purpose issue bonds, certificates of indebtedness or other obligations which shall be a charge on the city, town or county. Such bonds, certificates or other obligations may be issued with or without interest, payable at such time or times as the authorities may determine, but shall not be issued or sold at less than par. If it is proposed that bonds be issued to finance the purchase of voting machines, such bonds may not be issued unless approved in an election by a majority of the votes cast by the voters of the city, town or county affected. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-911.
The governing body of a city, town or county may adopt voting machines and, upon the adoption and purchase of voting machines, shall provide for payment for the machines in the way it deems for the best interest of the locality and may for that purpose issue bonds, certificates of indebtedness or other obligations which shall be a charge on the city, town or county. Such bonds, certificates or other obligations may be issued with or without interest, payable at such time or times as the authorities may determine, but shall not be issued or sold at less than par. If it is proposed that bonds be issued to finance the purchase of voting machines, such bonds may not be issued unless approved in an election by a majority of the votes cast by the voters of the city, town or county affected.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-911.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-6-401 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 6 / Section 2-6-401
Emergency absentee ballots
Status: in_force

(a) (1) The county election commission may designate emergency registrars who shall have the responsibility of supplying ballots to and receiving ballots from persons who have been hospitalized in their county of residence within twenty (20) days of an election when such persons will be unable to vote in person on election day. (2) The county election commission may appoint the hospital administrator to act as an emergency registrar for any person who is a patient in that hospital due to an emergency; provided, that no such appointment shall be made more than fifteen (15) days before the election. (3) Any ballots cast in accordance with this section shall be witnessed by a voter registered in the county. (b) A registered voter eligible to request the services of an emergency registrar shall make such a request not more than twenty (20) days before the election and no later than the opening of the polls on election day. Upon receiving a bona fide request for the services of an emergency registrar, the county election commission shall direct an emergency registrar to provide the following materials to such person: (1) An application; (2) A paper ballot or ballots; (3) A duplicate of the person's permanent voter registration; and (4) An envelope in which to seal the ballot. (c) In addition to those persons or that category of persons otherwise authorized to vote absentee under this chapter, a voter shall upon a showing of reasonable proof to the administrator of elections or the administrator's deputy be eligible to vote absentee by personal appearance at the commission office, not more than five (5) days nor later than the day prior to the election if: (1) Due to the death of a relative of a voter which would result in the voter's absence from the state or county on election day; or (2) If the voter receives a subpoena or service of process requiring the voter's presence on election day. (d) The procedure for voting shall substantially follow the provisions for voting absentee by personal appearance set out in §§ 2-6-102 and 2-6-109 . Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 231, s 8, eff. 7/1/2013. Acts 1977, ch. 306, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-629; Acts 1981, ch. 478, §§ 14, 15; 1983, ch. 230, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-6-129; Acts 1994, ch. 859, § 5.
(a) (1) The county election commission may designate emergency registrars who shall have the responsibility of supplying ballots to and receiving ballots from persons who have been hospitalized in their county of residence within twenty (20) days of an election when such persons will be unable to vote in person on election day. (2) The county election commission may appoint the hospital administrator to act as an emergency registrar for any person who is a patient in that hospital due to an emergency; provided, that no such appointment shall be made more than fifteen (15) days before the election. (3) Any ballots cast in accordance with this section shall be witnessed by a voter registered in the county.
(1) The county election commission may designate emergency registrars who shall have the responsibility of supplying ballots to and receiving ballots from persons who have been hospitalized in their county of residence within twenty (20) days of an election when such persons will be unable to vote in person on election day.
(2) The county election commission may appoint the hospital administrator to act as an emergency registrar for any person who is a patient in that hospital due to an emergency; provided, that no such appointment shall be made more than fifteen (15) days before the election.
(3) Any ballots cast in accordance with this section shall be witnessed by a voter registered in the county.
(b) A registered voter eligible to request the services of an emergency registrar shall make such a request not more than twenty (20) days before the election and no later than the opening of the polls on election day. Upon receiving a bona fide request for the services of an emergency registrar, the county election commission shall direct an emergency registrar to provide the following materials to such person: (1) An application; (2) A paper ballot or ballots; (3) A duplicate of the person's permanent voter registration; and (4) An envelope in which to seal the ballot.
(1) An application;
(2) A paper ballot or ballots;
(3) A duplicate of the person's permanent voter registration; and
(4) An envelope in which to seal the ballot.
(c) In addition to those persons or that category of persons otherwise authorized to vote absentee under this chapter, a voter shall upon a showing of reasonable proof to the administrator of elections or the administrator's deputy be eligible to vote absentee by personal appearance at the commission office, not more than five (5) days nor later than the day prior to the election if: (1) Due to the death of a relative of a voter which would result in the voter's absence from the state or county on election day; or (2) If the voter receives a subpoena or service of process requiring the voter's presence on election day.
(1) Due to the death of a relative of a voter which would result in the voter's absence from the state or county on election day; or
(2) If the voter receives a subpoena or service of process requiring the voter's presence on election day.
(d) The procedure for voting shall substantially follow the provisions for voting absentee by personal appearance set out in §§ 2-6-102 and 2-6-109 .
Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 231, s 8, eff. 7/1/2013.
Acts 1977, ch. 306, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-629; Acts 1981, ch. 478, §§ 14, 15; 1983, ch. 230, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-6-129; Acts 1994, ch. 859, § 5.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-19-112 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 19 / Section 2-19-112
Election officials - Civil liability
Status: in_force

If any person holding an election refuses to deliver to a person elected to any office a fair copy of the list of votes, when demanded according to law, or holds an election in any other manner than as directed by law, or neglects to make or to forward due returns thereof, such person shall forfeit and pay the sum of five hundred dollars ($500), to be recovered by action of debt in any court of record having cognizance thereof, with costs, one-half (1/2) to the use of the state, the other one-half (1/2) to such person who sues for the same. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1912.
If any person holding an election refuses to deliver to a person elected to any office a fair copy of the list of votes, when demanded according to law, or holds an election in any other manner than as directed by law, or neglects to make or to forward due returns thereof, such person shall forfeit and pay the sum of five hundred dollars ($500), to be recovered by action of debt in any court of record having cognizance thereof, with costs, one-half (1/2) to the use of the state, the other one-half (1/2) to such person who sues for the same.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1912.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-6-309 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 6 / Section 2-6-309
Absentee ballot envelope - Requirements - Voter's affidavit form
Status: in_force

(a) The absentee ballot envelope shall have a sealing flap and shall be a plain envelope without markings except the words "Absentee Ballot Envelope" or "____________________ Primary Absentee Ballot Envelope" printed on the face and such instructions for the use of the envelope if it has become prematurely sealed as the coordinator of elections prescribes. The coordinator of elections shall determine distinguishable colors to be used in the printing of the ballot envelopes for early voting and absentee voting. Both envelopes shall include a place for the voter's precinct and district number and a statement for the administrator to sign stating that the voter's signature has been verified and appears to be valid. The absentee voting ballot envelope need not contain a certificate for an attesting official. (b) It shall have also a detachable flap which shall contain the words "Do Not Detach" and an affidavit in substantially the following form: VOTER'S AFFIDAVIT State of ______________ County of ______________ I, ______________, do solemnly swear that I am a resident of Precinct ____________________, Ward or District ____________________ of ______________ County, State of Tennessee, and am a registered voter in the ______________ election to be held on the ____________________ day of ______________, 20 ____________________. I further swear that this envelope contains the absentee ballot marked by me in secret indicating my choice at that election, and that I am not registered in any other state or county for this election and I am otherwise entitled to vote absentee in this election. ______________ Signature of Affiant Witnesses if assisted (Person who assisted) Name ______________ Address ______________ Name ______________ Address ______________ CERTIFICATE OF ATTESTING OFFICIAL Sworn to and subscribed before me this ______________ day of ____________________, 20____________________. I hereby certify that the affiant whose name appears above exhibited the enclosed absentee ballot to me unmarked, marked the ballot in secret (with assistance) and enclosed and sealed it in this envelope without anyone (other than the assistant) seeing how the affiant voted, and the affiant was not solicited or advised by me to vote for or against any candidate or issue in the election. ______________ (Title) Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; 1979, ch. 316, § 6; T.C.A., §§ 2-625, 2-6-125; Acts 1994, ch. 859, § 2.
(a) The absentee ballot envelope shall have a sealing flap and shall be a plain envelope without markings except the words "Absentee Ballot Envelope" or "____________________ Primary Absentee Ballot Envelope" printed on the face and such instructions for the use of the envelope if it has become prematurely sealed as the coordinator of elections prescribes. The coordinator of elections shall determine distinguishable colors to be used in the printing of the ballot envelopes for early voting and absentee voting. Both envelopes shall include a place for the voter's precinct and district number and a statement for the administrator to sign stating that the voter's signature has been verified and appears to be valid. The absentee voting ballot envelope need not contain a certificate for an attesting official.
(b) It shall have also a detachable flap which shall contain the words "Do Not Detach" and an affidavit in substantially the following form: VOTER'S AFFIDAVIT State of ______________ County of ______________ I, ______________, do solemnly swear that I am a resident of Precinct ____________________, Ward or District ____________________ of ______________ County, State of Tennessee, and am a registered voter in the ______________ election to be held on the ____________________ day of ______________, 20 ____________________. I further swear that this envelope contains the absentee ballot marked by me in secret indicating my choice at that election, and that I am not registered in any other state or county for this election and I am otherwise entitled to vote absentee in this election. ______________ Signature of Affiant Witnesses if assisted (Person who assisted) Name ______________ Address ______________ Name ______________ Address ______________ CERTIFICATE OF ATTESTING OFFICIAL Sworn to and subscribed before me this ______________ day of ____________________, 20____________________. I hereby certify that the affiant whose name appears above exhibited the enclosed absentee ballot to me unmarked, marked the ballot in secret (with assistance) and enclosed and sealed it in this envelope without anyone (other than the assistant) seeing how the affiant voted, and the affiant was not solicited or advised by me to vote for or against any candidate or issue in the election. ______________ (Title)
VOTER'S AFFIDAVIT
State of ______________
County of ______________
I, ______________, do solemnly swear that I am a resident of Precinct ____________________, Ward or District ____________________ of ______________ County, State of Tennessee, and am a registered voter in the ______________ election to be held on the ____________________ day of ______________, 20 ____________________.
I further swear that this envelope contains the absentee ballot marked by me in secret indicating my choice at that election, and that I am not registered in any other state or county for this election and I am otherwise entitled to vote absentee in this election.
______________
Signature of Affiant
Witnesses if assisted
(Person who assisted)
Name ______________ Address ______________
CERTIFICATE OF ATTESTING OFFICIAL
Sworn to and subscribed before me this ______________ day of ____________________, 20____________________. I hereby certify that the affiant whose name appears above exhibited the enclosed absentee ballot to me unmarked, marked the ballot in secret (with assistance) and enclosed and sealed it in this envelope without anyone (other than the assistant) seeing how the affiant voted, and the affiant was not solicited or advised by me to vote for or against any candidate or issue in the election.
______________
(Title)
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; 1979, ch. 316, § 6; T.C.A., §§ 2-625, 2-6-125; Acts 1994, ch. 859, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-7-142 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 7 / Section 2-7-142
Use of mobile electronic or communication devices at polling places
Status: in_force

(a) A county election commission shall not prohibit a voter from using a mobile electronic or communication device at a polling place for informational purposes to assist the voter in making election decisions. A county election commission may require that any mobile electronic or communication device be silenced while in use at the polling place. (b) Any voter using a mobile electronic or communication device as allowed in subsection (a) shall be prohibited from using the device for telephone conversations, recording, or taking photographs or videos while inside the polling place. Added by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 315,s 1, eff. 1/1/2016.
(a) A county election commission shall not prohibit a voter from using a mobile electronic or communication device at a polling place for informational purposes to assist the voter in making election decisions. A county election commission may require that any mobile electronic or communication device be silenced while in use at the polling place.
(b) Any voter using a mobile electronic or communication device as allowed in subsection (a) shall be prohibited from using the device for telephone conversations, recording, or taking photographs or videos while inside the polling place.
Added by 2015 Tenn. Acts, ch. 315,s 1, eff. 1/1/2016.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-2-302 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 2 / Section 2-2-302
Automated Electoral System (AES)
Status: in_force

As of January 1, 2006, the Automated Electoral System (AES) shall be the official list of registered voters in the state. Acts 2005, ch. 308, § 1.
As of January 1, 2006, the Automated Electoral System (AES) shall be the official list of registered voters in the state.
Acts 2005, ch. 308, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-7-119 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 7 / Section 2-7-119
Machine out of order - Procedure
Status: in_force

(a) If a voting machine being used in an election becomes out of order, it shall be repaired if possible or another machine substituted as promptly as possible. (b) If repair or substitution cannot be made and other machines at the polling place cannot handle the voters, the paper ballots provided for the polling place shall be used and, if necessary, ballots shall be provided under § 2-7-108 . (c) If a voting machine becomes out of order while it is being used, the crosses (X) shall be cleared from its face by the names of candidates and by questions. The voter may then vote on another machine or by paper ballot as the judges decide. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-719.
(a) If a voting machine being used in an election becomes out of order, it shall be repaired if possible or another machine substituted as promptly as possible.
(b) If repair or substitution cannot be made and other machines at the polling place cannot handle the voters, the paper ballots provided for the polling place shall be used and, if necessary, ballots shall be provided under § 2-7-108 .
(c) If a voting machine becomes out of order while it is being used, the crosses (X) shall be cleared from its face by the names of candidates and by questions. The voter may then vote on another machine or by paper ballot as the judges decide.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-719.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-1-116 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 1 / Section 2-1-116
Removal of campaign advertising
Status: in_force

(a) After the conclusion of a primary, general, or special election, candidates in such election shall be responsible for the removal of any signs, posters, or placards advocating their candidacy, which have been placed on highway rights-of-way or other publicly owned property. The removal of such materials shall be accomplished within a reasonable period of time following the election, not to exceed three (3) weeks. (b) Any candidate in a primary election who will also be a candidate in a general or special election following that primary shall not be required to remove any signs advocating such candidate's candidacy until after the conclusion of the general or special election. (c) This section shall not be construed as being penal in nature. There shall be no punitive measures taken against a candidate or workers if all signs are not removed. Acts 1983, ch. 197, § 1.
(a) After the conclusion of a primary, general, or special election, candidates in such election shall be responsible for the removal of any signs, posters, or placards advocating their candidacy, which have been placed on highway rights-of-way or other publicly owned property. The removal of such materials shall be accomplished within a reasonable period of time following the election, not to exceed three (3) weeks.
(b) Any candidate in a primary election who will also be a candidate in a general or special election following that primary shall not be required to remove any signs advocating such candidate's candidacy until after the conclusion of the general or special election.
(c) This section shall not be construed as being penal in nature. There shall be no punitive measures taken against a candidate or workers if all signs are not removed.
Acts 1983, ch. 197, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-2-301 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 2 / Section 2-2-301
Purpose
Status: in_force

The purpose of this part is to establish a statewide voter registration database maintained by the state coordinator of elections to comply with the Help America Vote Act. Acts 2005, ch. 308, § 1.
The purpose of this part is to establish a statewide voter registration database maintained by the state coordinator of elections to comply with the Help America Vote Act.
Acts 2005, ch. 308, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-5-219 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 5 / Section 2-5-219
Candidates nominated by write-in votes - Withdrawal of name
Status: in_force

(a) Notwithstanding any other general law, or special act, or municipal charter to the contrary, no write-in candidate in a primary election for a position as a county or municipal official shall have such candidate's name placed upon the ballot in the election for such position unless such candidate received not less than twenty-five (25) votes. (b) If a candidate is nominated as prescribed in subsection (a) by write-in votes, such a nominated candidate may withdraw from the nomination by filing a letter of withdrawal with the county election commission not later than ten (10) days after the primary election wherein such candidate was nominated. Acts 1982, ch. 607, §§ 1, 2.
(a) Notwithstanding any other general law, or special act, or municipal charter to the contrary, no write-in candidate in a primary election for a position as a county or municipal official shall have such candidate's name placed upon the ballot in the election for such position unless such candidate received not less than twenty-five (25) votes.
(b) If a candidate is nominated as prescribed in subsection (a) by write-in votes, such a nominated candidate may withdraw from the nomination by filing a letter of withdrawal with the county election commission not later than ten (10) days after the primary election wherein such candidate was nominated.
Acts 1982, ch. 607, §§ 1, 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-1-102 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 1 / Section 2-1-102
Purpose
Status: in_force

The purpose of this title is to regulate the conduct of all elections by the people so that: (1) The freedom and purity of the ballot are secured; (2) Voters are required to vote in the election precincts in which they reside, except as otherwise expressly permitted; (3) Internal improvement is promoted by providing a comprehensive and uniform procedure for elections; and (4) Maximum participation by all citizens in the electoral process is encouraged. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-102.
The purpose of this title is to regulate the conduct of all elections by the people so that:
(1) The freedom and purity of the ballot are secured;
(2) Voters are required to vote in the election precincts in which they reside, except as otherwise expressly permitted;
(3) Internal improvement is promoted by providing a comprehensive and uniform procedure for elections; and
(4) Maximum participation by all citizens in the electoral process is encouraged.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-102.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-3-108 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 3 / Section 2-3-108
Polling places - Tables and chairs for officials - Voting compartments - Supplies
Status: in_force

(a) The county election commission shall arrange for each polling place to have a sufficient number of tables and chairs for its election officials and poll watchers and voting compartments for the convenient use of voters in marking paper ballots. (b) (1) Each compartment shall be so arranged that it is impossible for any person to see a voter's ballot while it is being marked. The arrangement shall be such that neither the ballot boxes nor the voting compartments are hidden from the view of the election officials and poll watchers or those just outside a guard rail which may run in front of the ballot box. (2) The number of such voting compartments shall not be less than three (3) for every one hundred (100) voters registered to vote at a polling place where voting machines are not used. (c) (1) One (1) voting compartment shall be provided at each polling place where voting machines are used. (2) Each voting machine shall be so placed that it is accessible to only one (1) voter at a time and is in full view of all the election officials and watchers at the polling place. (d) The county election commission shall provide for each polling place a sufficient supply of pencils, voting instructions, and boundary signs to be placed at the boundary provided in § 2-7-111 . The flag of the United States shall be displayed outside of each polling place on election day. The county election commission shall ensure that such flag is available for each polling place. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-313; Acts 1987, ch. 362, § 3.
(a) The county election commission shall arrange for each polling place to have a sufficient number of tables and chairs for its election officials and poll watchers and voting compartments for the convenient use of voters in marking paper ballots.
(b) (1) Each compartment shall be so arranged that it is impossible for any person to see a voter's ballot while it is being marked. The arrangement shall be such that neither the ballot boxes nor the voting compartments are hidden from the view of the election officials and poll watchers or those just outside a guard rail which may run in front of the ballot box. (2) The number of such voting compartments shall not be less than three (3) for every one hundred (100) voters registered to vote at a polling place where voting machines are not used.
(1) Each compartment shall be so arranged that it is impossible for any person to see a voter's ballot while it is being marked. The arrangement shall be such that neither the ballot boxes nor the voting compartments are hidden from the view of the election officials and poll watchers or those just outside a guard rail which may run in front of the ballot box.
(2) The number of such voting compartments shall not be less than three (3) for every one hundred (100) voters registered to vote at a polling place where voting machines are not used.
(c) (1) One (1) voting compartment shall be provided at each polling place where voting machines are used. (2) Each voting machine shall be so placed that it is accessible to only one (1) voter at a time and is in full view of all the election officials and watchers at the polling place.
(1) One (1) voting compartment shall be provided at each polling place where voting machines are used.
(2) Each voting machine shall be so placed that it is accessible to only one (1) voter at a time and is in full view of all the election officials and watchers at the polling place.
(d) The county election commission shall provide for each polling place a sufficient supply of pencils, voting instructions, and boundary signs to be placed at the boundary provided in § 2-7-111 . The flag of the United States shall be displayed outside of each polling place on election day. The county election commission shall ensure that such flag is available for each polling place.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-313; Acts 1987, ch. 362, § 3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-12-107 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 12 / Section 2-12-107
Issuance of commissions of appointment - Records
Status: in_force

(a) The state election commission shall issue to the county election commissioners commissions of appointment signed by the chair. (b) The state election commission shall keep records of the names and addresses of all county election commissioners and their officers, of dates of appointment, and of political affiliations of commissioners, and shall keep the oaths filed by the commissioners. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; impl. am. Acts 1978, ch. 754, § 5; T.C.A., § 2-1207.
(a) The state election commission shall issue to the county election commissioners commissions of appointment signed by the chair.
(b) The state election commission shall keep records of the names and addresses of all county election commissioners and their officers, of dates of appointment, and of political affiliations of commissioners, and shall keep the oaths filed by the commissioners.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; impl. am. Acts 1978, ch. 754, § 5; T.C.A., § 2-1207.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-10-403 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 10 / Section 2-10-403
Expense fund
Status: in_force

Not later than thirty (30) days after being elected to the office of governor, the governor-elect shall establish a gubernatorial inauguration expense fund that shall be used to finance any event held for the purpose of celebrating the governor's inauguration. Such fund is subject to the contribution limits and reporting requirements provided in this part. Parts 1 and 3 of this chapter shall not apply to contributions made pursuant to this part. Acts 2001, ch. 458, § 1.
Not later than thirty (30) days after being elected to the office of governor, the governor-elect shall establish a gubernatorial inauguration expense fund that shall be used to finance any event held for the purpose of celebrating the governor's inauguration. Such fund is subject to the contribution limits and reporting requirements provided in this part. Parts 1 and 3 of this chapter shall not apply to contributions made pursuant to this part.
Acts 2001, ch. 458, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-9-113 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 9 / Section 2-9-113
State financing of voting machines - Purchase
Status: in_force

(a) The commissioner of finance and administration shall purchase or otherwise acquire voting machines to carry out § 2-9-112 . (b) The coordinator of elections, subject to the approval of the commissioner, shall determine the number of machines to be purchased for the governing body of any county and enter into agreements, as provided in § 2-9-112 , with the county for the financing of the machines. The coordinator of elections in determining the number of machines to be purchased for a county shall consider the following factors: (1) The amount of state funds available for the financing of voting machines; (2) Whether the county is making an initial acquisition of machines or is replacing old machines; (3) The need of the county for assistance in purchasing machines; and (4) Such other considerations as may be pertinent to carry out the purposes of this title. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-913.
(a) The commissioner of finance and administration shall purchase or otherwise acquire voting machines to carry out § 2-9-112 .
(b) The coordinator of elections, subject to the approval of the commissioner, shall determine the number of machines to be purchased for the governing body of any county and enter into agreements, as provided in § 2-9-112 , with the county for the financing of the machines. The coordinator of elections in determining the number of machines to be purchased for a county shall consider the following factors: (1) The amount of state funds available for the financing of voting machines; (2) Whether the county is making an initial acquisition of machines or is replacing old machines; (3) The need of the county for assistance in purchasing machines; and (4) Such other considerations as may be pertinent to carry out the purposes of this title.
(1) The amount of state funds available for the financing of voting machines;
(2) Whether the county is making an initial acquisition of machines or is replacing old machines;
(3) The need of the county for assistance in purchasing machines; and
(4) Such other considerations as may be pertinent to carry out the purposes of this title.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-913.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-12-104 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 12 / Section 2-12-104
Qualification by filing oath of office
Status: in_force

Persons appointed to the county election commission shall qualify within twenty (20) days after their appointment by filing their oath of office with the secretary of the state election commission. A failure to qualify shall vacate the office of the person failing to qualify. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1204.
Persons appointed to the county election commission shall qualify within twenty (20) days after their appointment by filing their oath of office with the secretary of the state election commission. A failure to qualify shall vacate the office of the person failing to qualify.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1204.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-6-109 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 6 / Section 2-6-109
Verification of signature - Voting - Affidavits - Voting booths
Status: in_force

(a) (1) Upon completion of the application, the administrator of elections shall compare the signature of the voter with the signature on the voter's permanent registration record, or other evidence of identification if computerized duplicate registration records are used, and shall endorse on the application that the two (2) signatures are, or are not, the same. The administrator shall make a determination whether the voter's address is different from the address on the voter's permanent registration record or if the registration is in inactive status. If the voter has changed residence, or the voter's registration is inactive, the administrator shall follow the procedures for voting pursuant to § 2-7-140 . Upon determination that the voter is entitled to vote early in the election, the administrator shall hand to the voter, after recording the ballot number on the voter's permanent registration record: (A) Instructions; and (B) One (1) early voting ballot or one (1) primary early voting ballot or both. (2) In a computerized county, the administrator may record the ballot number on the computer-generated duplicate registration record or the voter's application to vote. (b) The voter shall show the unmarked ballot to the early voting official, mark the ballot in secret at the place provided in the commission office, either fold the ballot or place it in a secrecy sleeve provided by the election commission in order to preserve the secrecy of the ballot, and return to the early voting official. (c) (1) The early voting official shall direct the voter to the correct general election early voting ballot box and/or party primary early voting ballot box according to the election and precinct in which the voter voted. The voter shall deposit the ballot in the appropriate ballot box or boxes. (2) Except in cases in which computerized duplicate registration records are used, the attesting official shall, in the presence of the voter, note on the voter's duplicate permanent registration record that the voter has voted early in the election and in every case, including those counties in which computerized duplicate registration records are used, record the voter's name on the early voting poll book for each election in which the voter voted. (3) In those counties in which computerized duplicate registration records are used, the attesting official shall update the voter's computerized voter history by making the appropriate data entry. (d) A county election commission may use any voting machine authorized for use under chapter 9 of this title for early voting. (e) The county election commission must provide a place where the voter may mark the ballot in complete secrecy and privacy. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; 1979, ch. 316, § 2; T.C.A., § 2-609; Acts 1982, ch. 665, § 2; 1988, ch. 993, §§ 1, 2; 1989, ch. 591, § 113; 1991, ch. 69, § 1; 1994, ch. 859, §§ 2, 12; 1995, ch. 88, §§ 3-5; 1997, ch. 550, § 6; 1997, ch. 558, § 15.
(a) (1) Upon completion of the application, the administrator of elections shall compare the signature of the voter with the signature on the voter's permanent registration record, or other evidence of identification if computerized duplicate registration records are used, and shall endorse on the application that the two (2) signatures are, or are not, the same. The administrator shall make a determination whether the voter's address is different from the address on the voter's permanent registration record or if the registration is in inactive status. If the voter has changed residence, or the voter's registration is inactive, the administrator shall follow the procedures for voting pursuant to § 2-7-140 . Upon determination that the voter is entitled to vote early in the election, the administrator shall hand to the voter, after recording the ballot number on the voter's permanent registration record: (A) Instructions; and (B) One (1) early voting ballot or one (1) primary early voting ballot or both. (2) In a computerized county, the administrator may record the ballot number on the computer-generated duplicate registration record or the voter's application to vote.
(1) Upon completion of the application, the administrator of elections shall compare the signature of the voter with the signature on the voter's permanent registration record, or other evidence of identification if computerized duplicate registration records are used, and shall endorse on the application that the two (2) signatures are, or are not, the same. The administrator shall make a determination whether the voter's address is different from the address on the voter's permanent registration record or if the registration is in inactive status. If the voter has changed residence, or the voter's registration is inactive, the administrator shall follow the procedures for voting pursuant to § 2-7-140 . Upon determination that the voter is entitled to vote early in the election, the administrator shall hand to the voter, after recording the ballot number on the voter's permanent registration record: (A) Instructions; and (B) One (1) early voting ballot or one (1) primary early voting ballot or both.
(A) Instructions; and
(B) One (1) early voting ballot or one (1) primary early voting ballot or both.
(2) In a computerized county, the administrator may record the ballot number on the computer-generated duplicate registration record or the voter's application to vote.
(b) The voter shall show the unmarked ballot to the early voting official, mark the ballot in secret at the place provided in the commission office, either fold the ballot or place it in a secrecy sleeve provided by the election commission in order to preserve the secrecy of the ballot, and return to the early voting official.
(c) (1) The early voting official shall direct the voter to the correct general election early voting ballot box and/or party primary early voting ballot box according to the election and precinct in which the voter voted. The voter shall deposit the ballot in the appropriate ballot box or boxes. (2) Except in cases in which computerized duplicate registration records are used, the attesting official shall, in the presence of the voter, note on the voter's duplicate permanent registration record that the voter has voted early in the election and in every case, including those counties in which computerized duplicate registration records are used, record the voter's name on the early voting poll book for each election in which the voter voted. (3) In those counties in which computerized duplicate registration records are used, the attesting official shall update the voter's computerized voter history by making the appropriate data entry.
(1) The early voting official shall direct the voter to the correct general election early voting ballot box and/or party primary early voting ballot box according to the election and precinct in which the voter voted. The voter shall deposit the ballot in the appropriate ballot box or boxes.
(2) Except in cases in which computerized duplicate registration records are used, the attesting official shall, in the presence of the voter, note on the voter's duplicate permanent registration record that the voter has voted early in the election and in every case, including those counties in which computerized duplicate registration records are used, record the voter's name on the early voting poll book for each election in which the voter voted.
(3) In those counties in which computerized duplicate registration records are used, the attesting official shall update the voter's computerized voter history by making the appropriate data entry.
(d) A county election commission may use any voting machine authorized for use under chapter 9 of this title for early voting.
(e) The county election commission must provide a place where the voter may mark the ballot in complete secrecy and privacy.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; 1979, ch. 316, § 2; T.C.A., § 2-609; Acts 1982, ch. 665, § 2; 1988, ch. 993, §§ 1, 2; 1989, ch. 591, § 113; 1991, ch. 69, § 1; 1994, ch. 859, §§ 2, 12; 1995, ch. 88, §§ 3-5; 1997, ch. 550, § 6; 1997, ch. 558, § 15.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-10-207 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 10 / Section 2-10-207
Registry of election finance - Powers
Status: in_force

The registry of election finance has the following powers: (1) Hold hearings, conduct audits, subpoena witnesses, administer oaths, and compel production of books, correspondence, papers and other records; (2) Issue written advisory opinions concerning compliance with this chapter, which may be relied upon without threat of sanction with respect to the issue addressed by the opinion, if the candidate or committee conforms the candidate's or committee's conduct to the requirements of the advisory opinion. Such advisory opinions shall be posted on the website of the registry of election finance; (3) In determining whether an actual violation has occurred, conduct a contested case hearing; (4) Issue an appropriate order following a determination; (5) Assess a late filing fee of twenty-five dollars ($25.00) per day up to a maximum total penalty of seven hundred fifty dollars ($750); (6) Assess a civil penalty for any violation of the disclosure laws as provided by this part. Civil penalties may be assessed for any violation of the Campaign Financial Disclosure Act, compiled in part 1 of this chapter, and the Campaign Contribution Limits Act, compiled in part 3 of this chapter; provided, that the registry shall only have the power to assess a civil penalty after notice and opportunity for hearing; and (7) Where the results of its investigation indicate a criminal act may have occurred, the registry shall refer the matter to the appropriate district attorney general for criminal prosecution. Acts 1989, ch. 585, § 7; 1990, ch. 1049, § 3; 1992, ch. 988, § 3; 1995, ch. 531, §§ 5-7; 2006 (1st Ex. Sess.), ch. 1, § 12; 2009 , ch. 556, § 11.
The registry of election finance has the following powers:
(1) Hold hearings, conduct audits, subpoena witnesses, administer oaths, and compel production of books, correspondence, papers and other records;
(2) Issue written advisory opinions concerning compliance with this chapter, which may be relied upon without threat of sanction with respect to the issue addressed by the opinion, if the candidate or committee conforms the candidate's or committee's conduct to the requirements of the advisory opinion. Such advisory opinions shall be posted on the website of the registry of election finance;
(3) In determining whether an actual violation has occurred, conduct a contested case hearing;
(4) Issue an appropriate order following a determination;
(5) Assess a late filing fee of twenty-five dollars ($25.00) per day up to a maximum total penalty of seven hundred fifty dollars ($750);
(6) Assess a civil penalty for any violation of the disclosure laws as provided by this part. Civil penalties may be assessed for any violation of the Campaign Financial Disclosure Act, compiled in part 1 of this chapter, and the Campaign Contribution Limits Act, compiled in part 3 of this chapter; provided, that the registry shall only have the power to assess a civil penalty after notice and opportunity for hearing; and
(7) Where the results of its investigation indicate a criminal act may have occurred, the registry shall refer the matter to the appropriate district attorney general for criminal prosecution.
Acts 1989, ch. 585, § 7; 1990, ch. 1049, § 3; 1992, ch. 988, § 3; 1995, ch. 531, §§ 5-7; 2006 (1st Ex. Sess.), ch. 1, § 12; 2009 , ch. 556, § 11.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-18-103 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 18 / Section 2-18-103
Tellers
Status: in_force

Before the joint session, each house shall appoint two (2) tellers from different political parties. The tellers shall keep, certify, and deliver to the speaker of the senate a list of the votes in the joint convention. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1803.
Before the joint session, each house shall appoint two (2) tellers from different political parties. The tellers shall keep, certify, and deliver to the speaker of the senate a list of the votes in the joint convention.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1803.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-7-107 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 7 / Section 2-7-107
Delivery of election supplies
Status: in_force

The officer of elections shall deliver to the polling place on the day of the election the duplicate permanent registration records, paper ballots, sample ballots, voting machine keys, ballot boxes and keys, and all other supplies needed for the conduct of the election. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-707.
The officer of elections shall deliver to the polling place on the day of the election the duplicate permanent registration records, paper ballots, sample ballots, voting machine keys, ballot boxes and keys, and all other supplies needed for the conduct of the election.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-707.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-18-117 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 18 / Section 2-18-117
Bond - Enforcement of penalty
Status: in_force

(a) A claimant, before making objection under § 2-18-104 , shall enter into bond and good security to be approved by the speakers of the senate and house of representatives, in the sum of twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000), payable to the state of Tennessee, conditioned upon the faithful and bona fide prosecution of the contest. (b) (1) If no bond is filed for approval with the speaker of the senate by twelve o'clock (12:00) noon, prevailing time, on December 15 after the election, there may be no contest of the election. (2) If a bond is filed by that time, other claimants may file their bonds until twelve o'clock (12:00) noon, prevailing time, on the seventh day after the first bond is filed. (c) The penalty of the bond shall not be enforced against a contestant and the contestant's securities unless the joint assembly concludes that the contest was not in good faith, was malicious, was made for political effect or was without reasonable cause, in which case the joint assembly shall so declare and order the enforcement of the penalty of the bond. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1817.
(a) A claimant, before making objection under § 2-18-104 , shall enter into bond and good security to be approved by the speakers of the senate and house of representatives, in the sum of twenty-five thousand dollars ($25,000), payable to the state of Tennessee, conditioned upon the faithful and bona fide prosecution of the contest.
(b) (1) If no bond is filed for approval with the speaker of the senate by twelve o'clock (12:00) noon, prevailing time, on December 15 after the election, there may be no contest of the election. (2) If a bond is filed by that time, other claimants may file their bonds until twelve o'clock (12:00) noon, prevailing time, on the seventh day after the first bond is filed.
(1) If no bond is filed for approval with the speaker of the senate by twelve o'clock (12:00) noon, prevailing time, on December 15 after the election, there may be no contest of the election.
(2) If a bond is filed by that time, other claimants may file their bonds until twelve o'clock (12:00) noon, prevailing time, on the seventh day after the first bond is filed.
(c) The penalty of the bond shall not be enforced against a contestant and the contestant's securities unless the joint assembly concludes that the contest was not in good faith, was malicious, was made for political effect or was without reasonable cause, in which case the joint assembly shall so declare and order the enforcement of the penalty of the bond.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1817.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-6-601 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 6 / Section 2-6-601
Methods of voting at nursing homes
Status: in_force

(a) In the case of individuals who are full-time residents of a nursing home, in the county of the voter's residence, the county election commission of each county shall send one (1) absentee voting deputy representing the majority party and one (1) absentee voting deputy representing the minority party to the institution for the purpose of processing, assisting the voter who may be entitled to assistance under § 2-6-105 or § 2-6-106 , and attesting absentee ballot applications and ballots. Both absentee voting deputies shall attest the voter's ballot. The procedure for voting shall substantially follow the provisions for early voting established by part 1 of this chapter and shall be provided to each facility as described in this subsection (a). The procedure for voting in this section shall be the only method by which individuals may vote in an election if such individuals are full-time residents of a nursing home. Nothing in this section shall in any manner be construed to prohibit an individual from voting during the early voting period at a location established for early voting, or otherwise voting in person on election day at either the commission office, in accordance with § 2-3-109(e) , or the individual's polling place, if such an individual is a full-time resident in such home or institution and the individual is medically able to go to the commission office, the person's polling place, or a location established for early voting for the purpose of voting. The county election commission may begin the voting at the nursing homes twenty-seven (27) days before an election. (b) Each nursing home shall provide, upon request from the administrator of elections, a list of all the individuals in the licensed institution for the limited purpose of voting the registered voter. This list shall include the names and home addresses of each individual if such address is not the same as the licensed facility. The list shall be requested by the administrator of elections no later than forty (40) days prior to election day for each election and shall be provided promptly by the facility. (c) As used in this part, "nursing home" means a licensed nursing home, assisted care living facility, or home for the aged, other than a penal institution, and includes any independent living facility on the same property as a licensed nursing home, assisted care living facility, or home for the aged. Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 757,s 1, eff. 4/22/2024. Amended by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 233, Secs.s 1, s 2, s 3 eff. 4/22/2021. Acts 1997 , ch. 558, § 12; 1999, ch. 87, § 1; 1999, ch. 197, § 7; 2004, ch. 480, §§ 7, 8.
(a) In the case of individuals who are full-time residents of a nursing home, in the county of the voter's residence, the county election commission of each county shall send one (1) absentee voting deputy representing the majority party and one (1) absentee voting deputy representing the minority party to the institution for the purpose of processing, assisting the voter who may be entitled to assistance under § 2-6-105 or § 2-6-106 , and attesting absentee ballot applications and ballots. Both absentee voting deputies shall attest the voter's ballot. The procedure for voting shall substantially follow the provisions for early voting established by part 1 of this chapter and shall be provided to each facility as described in this subsection (a). The procedure for voting in this section shall be the only method by which individuals may vote in an election if such individuals are full-time residents of a nursing home. Nothing in this section shall in any manner be construed to prohibit an individual from voting during the early voting period at a location established for early voting, or otherwise voting in person on election day at either the commission office, in accordance with § 2-3-109(e) , or the individual's polling place, if such an individual is a full-time resident in such home or institution and the individual is medically able to go to the commission office, the person's polling place, or a location established for early voting for the purpose of voting. The county election commission may begin the voting at the nursing homes twenty-seven (27) days before an election.
(b) Each nursing home shall provide, upon request from the administrator of elections, a list of all the individuals in the licensed institution for the limited purpose of voting the registered voter. This list shall include the names and home addresses of each individual if such address is not the same as the licensed facility. The list shall be requested by the administrator of elections no later than forty (40) days prior to election day for each election and shall be provided promptly by the facility.
(c) As used in this part, "nursing home" means a licensed nursing home, assisted care living facility, or home for the aged, other than a penal institution, and includes any independent living facility on the same property as a licensed nursing home, assisted care living facility, or home for the aged.
Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 757,s 1, eff. 4/22/2024.
Amended by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 233, Secs.s 1, s 2, s 3 eff. 4/22/2021.
Acts 1997 , ch. 558, § 12; 1999, ch. 87, § 1; 1999, ch. 197, § 7; 2004, ch. 480, §§ 7, 8.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-16-101 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 16 / Section 2-16-101
Vacancies
Status: in_force

(a) If a vacancy occurs in the office of United States senator, a successor shall be elected at the next regular November election and shall hold office until the term for which the predecessor was elected expires. If the vacancy will deprive the state of its full representation at any time congress may be in session, the governor shall fill the vacancy by appointment until a successor is elected at the next regular November election and is qualified. (b) If a vacancy occurs in the office of representative in congress, within ten (10) days of such vacancy occurring the governor shall, by writs of election, order a special election to fill the vacancy. The governor shall, by writs of election, set a date not less than fifty-five (55) nor more than sixty (60) days from the date of the writs for primary elections for nominations by statewide political parties to fill the vacancy and shall, by the same writs of election, set a date of not less than one hundred (100) nor more than one hundred seven (107) days from the date of the writs for a general election to fill the vacancy. Candidates for the primary elections and independent candidates for the general election shall qualify as required in regular elections but shall file qualifying petitions before twelve o'clock (12:00) noon, prevailing time, on the sixth Thursday before the day of the primary elections. Except where this subsection (b) makes different provisions, chapter 14 of this title shall govern elections required by this subsection (b). The state primary boards shall perform their duties under chapter 8 of this title with respect to primaries held under this subsection (b) as quickly as practicable and shall certify the nominees of their parties to the county election commissions no later than twelve o'clock (12:00) noon, prevailing time, on the thirty-fifth day before the day of the general election. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1601; Acts 1980, ch. 883, § 1.
(a) If a vacancy occurs in the office of United States senator, a successor shall be elected at the next regular November election and shall hold office until the term for which the predecessor was elected expires. If the vacancy will deprive the state of its full representation at any time congress may be in session, the governor shall fill the vacancy by appointment until a successor is elected at the next regular November election and is qualified.
(b) If a vacancy occurs in the office of representative in congress, within ten (10) days of such vacancy occurring the governor shall, by writs of election, order a special election to fill the vacancy. The governor shall, by writs of election, set a date not less than fifty-five (55) nor more than sixty (60) days from the date of the writs for primary elections for nominations by statewide political parties to fill the vacancy and shall, by the same writs of election, set a date of not less than one hundred (100) nor more than one hundred seven (107) days from the date of the writs for a general election to fill the vacancy. Candidates for the primary elections and independent candidates for the general election shall qualify as required in regular elections but shall file qualifying petitions before twelve o'clock (12:00) noon, prevailing time, on the sixth Thursday before the day of the primary elections. Except where this subsection (b) makes different provisions, chapter 14 of this title shall govern elections required by this subsection (b). The state primary boards shall perform their duties under chapter 8 of this title with respect to primaries held under this subsection (b) as quickly as practicable and shall certify the nominees of their parties to the county election commissions no later than twelve o'clock (12:00) noon, prevailing time, on the thirty-fifth day before the day of the general election.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1601; Acts 1980, ch. 883, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-18-101 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 18 / Section 2-18-101
Determination by general assembly
Status: in_force

The procedure for deciding the election of governor in case of contest shall be: The two (2) houses of the general assembly shall, on a day of its organizational session designated by joint resolution, meet in joint convention in the hall of the house of representatives to open the returns of the election for governor, to determine the election, and to declare the result. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1801.
The procedure for deciding the election of governor in case of contest shall be: The two (2) houses of the general assembly shall, on a day of its organizational session designated by joint resolution, meet in joint convention in the hall of the house of representatives to open the returns of the election for governor, to determine the election, and to declare the result.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1801.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-13-304 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 13 / Section 2-13-304
Placement of presidential candidates on preference primary ballot
Status: in_force

(a) On the date established in § 2-5-205(a)(2) , the secretary of state shall notify all nationally recognized candidates for president that their names are to be placed on the Tennessee presidential preference primary ballot. Such notice shall also be given at the same time to all of the statewide political parties. (b) Any person who is notified that such person's name is to be placed on such ballot and who does not desire their name to appear on such ballot shall execute and file with the secretary of state an affidavit stating without qualification that the person is not and does not intend to become a candidate for president in the forthcoming presidential election. Such person shall file such affidavit with the secretary of state prior to twelve o'clock (12:00) noon prevailing time established in § 2-5-205(b) . (c) On the date established in § 2-5-205(c) , after twelve o'clock (12:00) noon prevailing time, the secretary of state shall announce the candidates for president who shall appear on the ballot and shall issue a call for an election for the purpose of electing delegates to the national conventions of all statewide political parties. Acts 1976, ch. 421, § 4; 1977, ch. 316, § 6; T.C.A., § 2-1344; Acts 1980, ch. 481, § 1; 1986, ch. 562, §§ 12-14; 1987, ch. 409, §§ 6-8; 2003, ch. 374, §§ 7-9.
(a) On the date established in § 2-5-205(a)(2) , the secretary of state shall notify all nationally recognized candidates for president that their names are to be placed on the Tennessee presidential preference primary ballot. Such notice shall also be given at the same time to all of the statewide political parties.
(b) Any person who is notified that such person's name is to be placed on such ballot and who does not desire their name to appear on such ballot shall execute and file with the secretary of state an affidavit stating without qualification that the person is not and does not intend to become a candidate for president in the forthcoming presidential election. Such person shall file such affidavit with the secretary of state prior to twelve o'clock (12:00) noon prevailing time established in § 2-5-205(b) .
(c) On the date established in § 2-5-205(c) , after twelve o'clock (12:00) noon prevailing time, the secretary of state shall announce the candidates for president who shall appear on the ballot and shall issue a call for an election for the purpose of electing delegates to the national conventions of all statewide political parties.
Acts 1976, ch. 421, § 4; 1977, ch. 316, § 6; T.C.A., § 2-1344; Acts 1980, ch. 481, § 1; 1986, ch. 562, §§ 12-14; 1987, ch. 409, §§ 6-8; 2003, ch. 374, §§ 7-9.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-19-132 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 19 / Section 2-19-132
[Repealed] Reserved
Status: repealed

Repealed by 2020 Tenn. Acts, ch. 654, s 1, eff. 4/2/2020. Added by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 250, s 6, eff. 10/1/2019.
Repealed by 2020 Tenn. Acts, ch. 654, s 1, eff. 4/2/2020.
Added by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 250, s 6, eff. 10/1/2019.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-5-208 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 5 / Section 2-5-208
Arrangement of material on ballots
Status: in_force

(a) The requirements of this section apply to all ballots. (b) Immediately following the title of each office shall be printed the words "Vote for one (1)," "Vote for two (2)," according to the number to be elected. (c) (1) The order of the titles of the offices to be filled or for which nominees are to be chosen shall be substantially as follows: (A) Presidential and vice presidential electors; (B) Governor; (C) United States senate; (D) United States house of representatives; (E) Tennessee senate; (F) Tennessee house of representatives; (G) Supreme court judge; (H) Court of appeals judge; (I) Court of criminal appeals judge; (J) Circuit court judge; (K) Chancellor; (L) Criminal court judge; (M) District attorney general; (N) Public defender; (O) County mayors, including popularly elected mayors of metropolitan county governments; (P) County legislative offices, including members of the county legislative bodies; (Q) Assessor of property; (R) County trustee; (S) General sessions judge; (T) Juvenile court judge; (U) Sheriff; (V) Clerks of courts; (W) County clerk; (X) Register; (Y) Elective county department offices, including road superintendents or commissioners, school boards and purchasing agents; (Z) Municipal executive offices; (AA) Municipal legislative offices; (BB) Municipal judicial offices; and (CC) Offices which do not fall into any classification listed in this subdivision (c)(1). (2) If several offices to be filled are within a single classification, they shall be arranged in alphabetical order. (3) If any judicial offices listed in subdivision (c)(1) are to be placed on the ballot as a yes/no retention question, the question shall be placed at the end of the ballot. (d) (1) Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter or this title, on general election ballots, the name of each political party having nominees on the ballot shall be listed in the following order: majority party, minority party, and recognized minor party, if any. The names of the political party candidates shall be alphabetically listed underneath the appropriate column for the candidate's party. A column for independent candidates shall follow the recognized minor party, or if there is not a recognized minor party on the ballot, shall follow the minority party, with the listing of the candidates' names alphabetically underneath. (2) On nonpartisan general election ballots and on the political party's primary ballot, the names of all candidates for the same office shall be arranged alphabetically according to the initials of their surnames, beginning with the first initial. (e) No number may be prefixed before or affixed after the names of candidates for any office so as to designate by number the order in which candidates' names are on the ballot for any office. The limitation set out in this subsection (e) does not prohibit the printing of numerals on the face of punch cards or ballots used with the microvote electronic voting system. (f) (1) Whenever a question is submitted to the vote of the people, it shall be placed at the end of the ballot, followed by the words "Yes" and "No", so that the voter can vote a preference by making a cross mark (X) opposite the proper word. If a retention judicial question is on the ballot as provided for in subdivision (c)(3), this question shall be placed after the retention judicial question; provided, that whenever the question of a state constitutional amendment is submitted to the vote of the people pursuant to article XI, § 3, paragraph 1 of the Tennessee Constitution, it shall be printed upon the ballot directly after the list of candidates for governor followed by the words "Yes" and "No", so that the voter can vote a preference by making a cross mark (X) opposite the proper word. Any question submitted to the people shall be worded in such a manner that a "yes" vote would indicate support for the measure and a "no" vote would indicate opposition. (2) (A) If the full statement of a question is more than three hundred (300) words in length, the question shall be preceded by a brief summary of the proposal written in a clear and coherent manner using words with common everyday meanings. Such summary shall not exceed two hundred (200) words in length. The summary shall be written by the attorney general and reporter for questions submitted to the voters of the entire state or of more than one (1) county or by the county attorney of the county in which the question is to be voted upon for questions to be submitted to the voters of one (1) county or any part of a county. The summary for questions submitted to the voters of a municipality shall be written by the city attorney of the municipality in which the question is to be voted upon. (B) Notwithstanding subdivision (f)(2)(A), if the question is a state constitutional amendment, the question shall be preceded by a brief summary of the proposal written in a clear and coherent manner using words with common everyday meanings. Such summary shall not exceed two hundred (200) words in length. The summary shall be written by the attorney general and reporter. (g) The ballot for each political party's presidential preference primary shall be headed "Candidates of the Party for President of the United States." Beneath the heading shall be "I declare my preference for candidate for the office of President of the United States to be:" followed by the names of the candidates. (h) The names of presidential candidates shall be arranged according to political parties, and followed by the words, (giving the name) for president and (giving the name) for vice president. Names of electors need not appear on the ballot. (i) When there are so many candidates for an office that their names will not all fit either horizontally or vertically on the ballot with the name of the office, the names shall be listed in alphabetical rotation from left to right in each necessary row in the following manner: (j) [Deleted by 2023 amendment.] (k) At the time of qualification for judge of the supreme court, the candidate shall state on the qualifying petition the grand division in which the candidate resides and the particular seat on the supreme court for which the candidate seeks election. The county election commission shall cause the names of the candidates to be arranged on the ballot so as to denote the grand division for which they are seeking to be elected or whether they are candidates from the state at large by prefixing to the names of the candidates the words "eastern," "western" or "middle" division or "the state at large." (l) On ballots in a referendum election held by a local government, any question submitted to the vote of the people shall be printed followed by the words "Yes" and "No", so that the voter can vote a preference by making a cross mark (X) opposite the proper word. Any question submitted to the people shall be worded in such a manner that a "yes" vote would indicate support for the measure and a "no" vote would indicate opposition. Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 346, s 2, eff. 5/5/2023. Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 579, s 1, eff. 3/10/2016. Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 231, s 6, eff. 7/1/2013. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; 1974, ch. 708, § 1; 1975, ch. 353, § 4; impl. am. Acts 1978, ch. 934, §§ 7, 22, 36; Acts 1978, ch. 934, § 29; T.C.A., §§ 2-308, 2-514; Acts 1981, ch. 110, § 1; 1981, ch. 246, § 1; 1981, ch. 300, § 1; 1983, ch. 20, § 1; 1988, ch. 672, § 3; 1990, ch. 628, § 5; 1995, ch. 305, § 56; 1996, ch. 574, § 1; 1997 , ch. 331, § 2; 1997 , ch. 558, § 5; 2000, ch. 756, §§ 9, 10, 11; 2000, ch. 883, § 2; 2003 , ch. 90, § 2; 2003 , ch. 183, § 1; 2007 , ch. 125, § 9; 2011 , ch. 257, § 3.
(a) The requirements of this section apply to all ballots.
(b) Immediately following the title of each office shall be printed the words "Vote for one (1)," "Vote for two (2)," according to the number to be elected.
(c) (1) The order of the titles of the offices to be filled or for which nominees are to be chosen shall be substantially as follows: (A) Presidential and vice presidential electors; (B) Governor; (C) United States senate; (D) United States house of representatives; (E) Tennessee senate; (F) Tennessee house of representatives; (G) Supreme court judge; (H) Court of appeals judge; (I) Court of criminal appeals judge; (J) Circuit court judge; (K) Chancellor; (L) Criminal court judge; (M) District attorney general; (N) Public defender; (O) County mayors, including popularly elected mayors of metropolitan county governments; (P) County legislative offices, including members of the county legislative bodies; (Q) Assessor of property; (R) County trustee; (S) General sessions judge; (T) Juvenile court judge; (U) Sheriff; (V) Clerks of courts; (W) County clerk; (X) Register; (Y) Elective county department offices, including road superintendents or commissioners, school boards and purchasing agents; (Z) Municipal executive offices; (AA) Municipal legislative offices; (BB) Municipal judicial offices; and (CC) Offices which do not fall into any classification listed in this subdivision (c)(1). (2) If several offices to be filled are within a single classification, they shall be arranged in alphabetical order. (3) If any judicial offices listed in subdivision (c)(1) are to be placed on the ballot as a yes/no retention question, the question shall be placed at the end of the ballot.
(1) The order of the titles of the offices to be filled or for which nominees are to be chosen shall be substantially as follows: (A) Presidential and vice presidential electors; (B) Governor; (C) United States senate; (D) United States house of representatives; (E) Tennessee senate; (F) Tennessee house of representatives; (G) Supreme court judge; (H) Court of appeals judge; (I) Court of criminal appeals judge; (J) Circuit court judge; (K) Chancellor; (L) Criminal court judge; (M) District attorney general; (N) Public defender; (O) County mayors, including popularly elected mayors of metropolitan county governments; (P) County legislative offices, including members of the county legislative bodies; (Q) Assessor of property; (R) County trustee; (S) General sessions judge; (T) Juvenile court judge; (U) Sheriff; (V) Clerks of courts; (W) County clerk; (X) Register; (Y) Elective county department offices, including road superintendents or commissioners, school boards and purchasing agents; (Z) Municipal executive offices; (AA) Municipal legislative offices; (BB) Municipal judicial offices; and (CC) Offices which do not fall into any classification listed in this subdivision (c)(1).
(A) Presidential and vice presidential electors;
(B) Governor;
(C) United States senate;
(D) United States house of representatives;
(E) Tennessee senate;
(F) Tennessee house of representatives;
(G) Supreme court judge;
(H) Court of appeals judge;
(I) Court of criminal appeals judge;
(J) Circuit court judge;
(K) Chancellor;
(L) Criminal court judge;
(M) District attorney general;
(N) Public defender;
(O) County mayors, including popularly elected mayors of metropolitan county governments;
(P) County legislative offices, including members of the county legislative bodies;
(Q) Assessor of property;
(R) County trustee;
(S) General sessions judge;
(T) Juvenile court judge;
(U) Sheriff;
(V) Clerks of courts;
(W) County clerk;
(X) Register;
(Y) Elective county department offices, including road superintendents or commissioners, school boards and purchasing agents;
(Z) Municipal executive offices;
(AA) Municipal legislative offices;
(BB) Municipal judicial offices; and
(CC) Offices which do not fall into any classification listed in this subdivision (c)(1).
(2) If several offices to be filled are within a single classification, they shall be arranged in alphabetical order.
(3) If any judicial offices listed in subdivision (c)(1) are to be placed on the ballot as a yes/no retention question, the question shall be placed at the end of the ballot.
(d) (1) Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter or this title, on general election ballots, the name of each political party having nominees on the ballot shall be listed in the following order: majority party, minority party, and recognized minor party, if any. The names of the political party candidates shall be alphabetically listed underneath the appropriate column for the candidate's party. A column for independent candidates shall follow the recognized minor party, or if there is not a recognized minor party on the ballot, shall follow the minority party, with the listing of the candidates' names alphabetically underneath. (2) On nonpartisan general election ballots and on the political party's primary ballot, the names of all candidates for the same office shall be arranged alphabetically according to the initials of their surnames, beginning with the first initial.
(1) Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter or this title, on general election ballots, the name of each political party having nominees on the ballot shall be listed in the following order: majority party, minority party, and recognized minor party, if any. The names of the political party candidates shall be alphabetically listed underneath the appropriate column for the candidate's party. A column for independent candidates shall follow the recognized minor party, or if there is not a recognized minor party on the ballot, shall follow the minority party, with the listing of the candidates' names alphabetically underneath.
(2) On nonpartisan general election ballots and on the political party's primary ballot, the names of all candidates for the same office shall be arranged alphabetically according to the initials of their surnames, beginning with the first initial.
(e) No number may be prefixed before or affixed after the names of candidates for any office so as to designate by number the order in which candidates' names are on the ballot for any office. The limitation set out in this subsection (e) does not prohibit the printing of numerals on the face of punch cards or ballots used with the microvote electronic voting system.
(f) (1) Whenever a question is submitted to the vote of the people, it shall be placed at the end of the ballot, followed by the words "Yes" and "No", so that the voter can vote a preference by making a cross mark (X) opposite the proper word. If a retention judicial question is on the ballot as provided for in subdivision (c)(3), this question shall be placed after the retention judicial question; provided, that whenever the question of a state constitutional amendment is submitted to the vote of the people pursuant to article XI, § 3, paragraph 1 of the Tennessee Constitution, it shall be printed upon the ballot directly after the list of candidates for governor followed by the words "Yes" and "No", so that the voter can vote a preference by making a cross mark (X) opposite the proper word. Any question submitted to the people shall be worded in such a manner that a "yes" vote would indicate support for the measure and a "no" vote would indicate opposition. (2) (A) If the full statement of a question is more than three hundred (300) words in length, the question shall be preceded by a brief summary of the proposal written in a clear and coherent manner using words with common everyday meanings. Such summary shall not exceed two hundred (200) words in length. The summary shall be written by the attorney general and reporter for questions submitted to the voters of the entire state or of more than one (1) county or by the county attorney of the county in which the question is to be voted upon for questions to be submitted to the voters of one (1) county or any part of a county. The summary for questions submitted to the voters of a municipality shall be written by the city attorney of the municipality in which the question is to be voted upon. (B) Notwithstanding subdivision (f)(2)(A), if the question is a state constitutional amendment, the question shall be preceded by a brief summary of the proposal written in a clear and coherent manner using words with common everyday meanings. Such summary shall not exceed two hundred (200) words in length. The summary shall be written by the attorney general and reporter.
(1) Whenever a question is submitted to the vote of the people, it shall be placed at the end of the ballot, followed by the words "Yes" and "No", so that the voter can vote a preference by making a cross mark (X) opposite the proper word. If a retention judicial question is on the ballot as provided for in subdivision (c)(3), this question shall be placed after the retention judicial question; provided, that whenever the question of a state constitutional amendment is submitted to the vote of the people pursuant to article XI, § 3, paragraph 1 of the Tennessee Constitution, it shall be printed upon the ballot directly after the list of candidates for governor followed by the words "Yes" and "No", so that the voter can vote a preference by making a cross mark (X) opposite the proper word. Any question submitted to the people shall be worded in such a manner that a "yes" vote would indicate support for the measure and a "no" vote would indicate opposition.
(2) (A) If the full statement of a question is more than three hundred (300) words in length, the question shall be preceded by a brief summary of the proposal written in a clear and coherent manner using words with common everyday meanings. Such summary shall not exceed two hundred (200) words in length. The summary shall be written by the attorney general and reporter for questions submitted to the voters of the entire state or of more than one (1) county or by the county attorney of the county in which the question is to be voted upon for questions to be submitted to the voters of one (1) county or any part of a county. The summary for questions submitted to the voters of a municipality shall be written by the city attorney of the municipality in which the question is to be voted upon. (B) Notwithstanding subdivision (f)(2)(A), if the question is a state constitutional amendment, the question shall be preceded by a brief summary of the proposal written in a clear and coherent manner using words with common everyday meanings. Such summary shall not exceed two hundred (200) words in length. The summary shall be written by the attorney general and reporter.
(A) If the full statement of a question is more than three hundred (300) words in length, the question shall be preceded by a brief summary of the proposal written in a clear and coherent manner using words with common everyday meanings. Such summary shall not exceed two hundred (200) words in length. The summary shall be written by the attorney general and reporter for questions submitted to the voters of the entire state or of more than one (1) county or by the county attorney of the county in which the question is to be voted upon for questions to be submitted to the voters of one (1) county or any part of a county. The summary for questions submitted to the voters of a municipality shall be written by the city attorney of the municipality in which the question is to be voted upon.
(B) Notwithstanding subdivision (f)(2)(A), if the question is a state constitutional amendment, the question shall be preceded by a brief summary of the proposal written in a clear and coherent manner using words with common everyday meanings. Such summary shall not exceed two hundred (200) words in length. The summary shall be written by the attorney general and reporter.
(g) The ballot for each political party's presidential preference primary shall be headed "Candidates of the Party for President of the United States." Beneath the heading shall be "I declare my preference for candidate for the office of President of the United States to be:" followed by the names of the candidates.
(h) The names of presidential candidates shall be arranged according to political parties, and followed by the words, (giving the name) for president and (giving the name) for vice president. Names of electors need not appear on the ballot.
(i) When there are so many candidates for an office that their names will not all fit either horizontally or vertically on the ballot with the name of the office, the names shall be listed in alphabetical rotation from left to right in each necessary row in the following manner:
(j) [Deleted by 2023 amendment.]
(k) At the time of qualification for judge of the supreme court, the candidate shall state on the qualifying petition the grand division in which the candidate resides and the particular seat on the supreme court for which the candidate seeks election. The county election commission shall cause the names of the candidates to be arranged on the ballot so as to denote the grand division for which they are seeking to be elected or whether they are candidates from the state at large by prefixing to the names of the candidates the words "eastern," "western" or "middle" division or "the state at large."
(l) On ballots in a referendum election held by a local government, any question submitted to the vote of the people shall be printed followed by the words "Yes" and "No", so that the voter can vote a preference by making a cross mark (X) opposite the proper word. Any question submitted to the people shall be worded in such a manner that a "yes" vote would indicate support for the measure and a "no" vote would indicate opposition.
Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 346, s 2, eff. 5/5/2023.
Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 579, s 1, eff. 3/10/2016.
Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 231, s 6, eff. 7/1/2013.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; 1974, ch. 708, § 1; 1975, ch. 353, § 4; impl. am. Acts 1978, ch. 934, §§ 7, 22, 36; Acts 1978, ch. 934, § 29; T.C.A., §§ 2-308, 2-514; Acts 1981, ch. 110, § 1; 1981, ch. 246, § 1; 1981, ch. 300, § 1; 1983, ch. 20, § 1; 1988, ch. 672, § 3; 1990, ch. 628, § 5; 1995, ch. 305, § 56; 1996, ch. 574, § 1; 1997 , ch. 331, § 2; 1997 , ch. 558, § 5; 2000, ch. 756, §§ 9, 10, 11; 2000, ch. 883, § 2; 2003 , ch. 90, § 2; 2003 , ch. 183, § 1; 2007 , ch. 125, § 9; 2011 , ch. 257, § 3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-12-114 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 12 / Section 2-12-114
Information provided for coordinator of elections
Status: in_force

(a) Each county election commission shall provide to the coordinator of elections the following information by precinct beginning on June 1, 1995, and each six (6) months thereafter: (1) The number of active voters and the number of inactive voters at the beginning of the reporting period; (2) The number of active voters and the number of inactive voters at the end of the reporting period; (3) The number of new valid voter registrations for the reporting period. This number shall not include duplicates, rejected registrations, and changes of names and addresses within the county; and (4) The number of active voters and the number of inactive voters purged during the reporting period. (b) Each county election commission shall on the same schedule established in subsection (a) provide to the coordinator of elections the following information for the county: (1) The number of registration applications received during the reporting period from the following categories of sources: (A) Those registering to vote in the county election commission office or other supplemental registrations held by or on behalf of the county election commission; (B) The department of safety, motor vehicle offices; (C) By-mail registration; (D) Public assistance agencies serving as voter registration agencies. This includes the following state departments: human services, mental health and substance abuse services, disability and aging, health, and veterans services; (E) State-funded agencies primarily serving persons with disabilities; (F) Armed forces recruitment offices; and (G) Passive registration agencies: public libraries, county clerks, and registers of deeds; (2) The number of duplicate registration applications received during the six-month period from the same categories of sources; and (3) The number of confirmation notices mailed out during the six-month period and the number of responses received to those confirmation notices. Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 688,s 100, eff. 7/1/2024. Acts 1979, ch. 317, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1221; Acts 1995, ch. 76, § 1; 2011 , ch. 158, § 1; 2012 , ch. 575, § 1.
(a) Each county election commission shall provide to the coordinator of elections the following information by precinct beginning on June 1, 1995, and each six (6) months thereafter: (1) The number of active voters and the number of inactive voters at the beginning of the reporting period; (2) The number of active voters and the number of inactive voters at the end of the reporting period; (3) The number of new valid voter registrations for the reporting period. This number shall not include duplicates, rejected registrations, and changes of names and addresses within the county; and (4) The number of active voters and the number of inactive voters purged during the reporting period.
(1) The number of active voters and the number of inactive voters at the beginning of the reporting period;
(2) The number of active voters and the number of inactive voters at the end of the reporting period;
(3) The number of new valid voter registrations for the reporting period. This number shall not include duplicates, rejected registrations, and changes of names and addresses within the county; and
(4) The number of active voters and the number of inactive voters purged during the reporting period.
(b) Each county election commission shall on the same schedule established in subsection (a) provide to the coordinator of elections the following information for the county: (1) The number of registration applications received during the reporting period from the following categories of sources: (A) Those registering to vote in the county election commission office or other supplemental registrations held by or on behalf of the county election commission; (B) The department of safety, motor vehicle offices; (C) By-mail registration; (D) Public assistance agencies serving as voter registration agencies. This includes the following state departments: human services, mental health and substance abuse services, disability and aging, health, and veterans services; (E) State-funded agencies primarily serving persons with disabilities; (F) Armed forces recruitment offices; and (G) Passive registration agencies: public libraries, county clerks, and registers of deeds; (2) The number of duplicate registration applications received during the six-month period from the same categories of sources; and (3) The number of confirmation notices mailed out during the six-month period and the number of responses received to those confirmation notices.
(1) The number of registration applications received during the reporting period from the following categories of sources: (A) Those registering to vote in the county election commission office or other supplemental registrations held by or on behalf of the county election commission; (B) The department of safety, motor vehicle offices; (C) By-mail registration; (D) Public assistance agencies serving as voter registration agencies. This includes the following state departments: human services, mental health and substance abuse services, disability and aging, health, and veterans services; (E) State-funded agencies primarily serving persons with disabilities; (F) Armed forces recruitment offices; and (G) Passive registration agencies: public libraries, county clerks, and registers of deeds;
(A) Those registering to vote in the county election commission office or other supplemental registrations held by or on behalf of the county election commission;
(B) The department of safety, motor vehicle offices;
(C) By-mail registration;
(D) Public assistance agencies serving as voter registration agencies. This includes the following state departments: human services, mental health and substance abuse services, disability and aging, health, and veterans services;
(E) State-funded agencies primarily serving persons with disabilities;
(F) Armed forces recruitment offices; and
(G) Passive registration agencies: public libraries, county clerks, and registers of deeds;
(2) The number of duplicate registration applications received during the six-month period from the same categories of sources; and
(3) The number of confirmation notices mailed out during the six-month period and the number of responses received to those confirmation notices.
Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 688,s 100, eff. 7/1/2024.
Acts 1979, ch. 317, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1221; Acts 1995, ch. 76, § 1; 2011 , ch. 158, § 1; 2012 , ch. 575, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-3-106 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 3 / Section 2-3-106
Description of boundaries - Filing and recordation - Availability to general assembly
Status: in_force

(a) The boundaries of each precinct shall be described either by metes and bounds or by a map of sufficient detail to delineate the boundaries of the precinct. Copies of the maps shall be filed and recorded in the office of the clerk of the county legislative body and in the office of the coordinator of elections and shall be available for public inspection. (b) Copies of the maps shall be made available by the coordinator of elections to members of the general assembly upon request and upon payment of the actual cost of reproduction of the same. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; 1977, ch. 155, §§ 1, 2; T.C.A., § 2-306; Acts 1981, ch. 478, § 8.
(a) The boundaries of each precinct shall be described either by metes and bounds or by a map of sufficient detail to delineate the boundaries of the precinct. Copies of the maps shall be filed and recorded in the office of the clerk of the county legislative body and in the office of the coordinator of elections and shall be available for public inspection.
(b) Copies of the maps shall be made available by the coordinator of elections to members of the general assembly upon request and upon payment of the actual cost of reproduction of the same.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; 1977, ch. 155, §§ 1, 2; T.C.A., § 2-306; Acts 1981, ch. 478, § 8.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-11-106 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 11 / Section 2-11-106
Qualification and organization
Status: in_force

(a) The members shall qualify within fifteen (15) days after their election and organize by the selection of one (1) member as chair and another as secretary. (b) The chair and secretary shall be elected for terms of one (1) year and shall be members of different political parties. (c) Failure on the part of a member to qualify by taking the oath shall vacate the election of such member. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; 1978, ch. 754, § 5; T.C.A., § 2-1106.
(a) The members shall qualify within fifteen (15) days after their election and organize by the selection of one (1) member as chair and another as secretary.
(b) The chair and secretary shall be elected for terms of one (1) year and shall be members of different political parties.
(c) Failure on the part of a member to qualify by taking the oath shall vacate the election of such member.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; 1978, ch. 754, § 5; T.C.A., § 2-1106.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-17-102 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 17 / Section 2-17-102
Contests for offices of general assembly members
Status: in_force

Contests for the office of senator in the general assembly are decided by the senate, and contests for the office of representative in the general assembly are decided by the house of representatives. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1702.
Contests for the office of senator in the general assembly are decided by the senate, and contests for the office of representative in the general assembly are decided by the house of representatives.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1702.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-13-313 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 13 / Section 2-13-313
Allocation of elected delegates
Status: in_force

Delegates elected from a congressional district shall be allocated among the presidential candidates and the uncommitted designation as proportionally as is mathematically possible to the number of votes received in the presidential preference election within such congressional district. If the votes received by a presidential candidate in any congressional district are less than fifteen percent (15%) of the votes cast in such district, no delegates shall be allocated to such candidate and such votes of less than fifteen percent (15%) shall be considered as votes for the uncommitted designation. Acts 1976, ch. 421, § 13; T.C.A., § 2-1353.
Delegates elected from a congressional district shall be allocated among the presidential candidates and the uncommitted designation as proportionally as is mathematically possible to the number of votes received in the presidential preference election within such congressional district. If the votes received by a presidential candidate in any congressional district are less than fifteen percent (15%) of the votes cast in such district, no delegates shall be allocated to such candidate and such votes of less than fifteen percent (15%) shall be considered as votes for the uncommitted designation.
Acts 1976, ch. 421, § 13; T.C.A., § 2-1353.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-10-208 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 10 / Section 2-10-208
Applicability of part
Status: in_force

(a) All political accounts or funds subject to Tennessee law on January 1, 1990, shall become subject to this part. (b) For the purposes of enforcement, this part shall be prospective only, and the registry shall limit its investigations to acts or omissions which occur after January 1, 1990. Acts 1989, ch. 585, § 30.
(a) All political accounts or funds subject to Tennessee law on January 1, 1990, shall become subject to this part.
(b) For the purposes of enforcement, this part shall be prospective only, and the registry shall limit its investigations to acts or omissions which occur after January 1, 1990.
Acts 1989, ch. 585, § 30.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-13-104 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 13 / Section 2-13-104
Party membership requirements for candidates
Status: in_force

All candidates for state executive committee membership and for membership in the general assembly shall be bona fide members of the political party whose election they seek. Except as provided in § 2-13-115 , a party may require by rule that candidates for its nominations be bona fide members of the party. Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 992,s 1, eff. 5/21/2018. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; 1973, ch. 106, § 3; T.C.A., § 2-1305.
All candidates for state executive committee membership and for membership in the general assembly shall be bona fide members of the political party whose election they seek. Except as provided in § 2-13-115 , a party may require by rule that candidates for its nominations be bona fide members of the party.
Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 992,s 1, eff. 5/21/2018.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; 1973, ch. 106, § 3; T.C.A., § 2-1305.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-19-202 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 19 / Section 2-19-202
Interference with election or nomination
Status: in_force

(a) It is unlawful for any public officer or employee to use such person's official position, authority or influence to interfere with an election or nomination for office or directly or indirectly attempt to intimidate, coerce or command any other officer or employee to vote for or against any measure, party or person, or knowingly receive or pay assessments of any kind or character for political purposes or for election expenses from any other officer or employee. (b) It is the intent of this section to prohibit any political intimidation or coercion of any public officer or employee. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1937.
(a) It is unlawful for any public officer or employee to use such person's official position, authority or influence to interfere with an election or nomination for office or directly or indirectly attempt to intimidate, coerce or command any other officer or employee to vote for or against any measure, party or person, or knowingly receive or pay assessments of any kind or character for political purposes or for election expenses from any other officer or employee.
(b) It is the intent of this section to prohibit any political intimidation or coercion of any public officer or employee.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1937.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-2-111 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 2 / Section 2-2-111
Supplemental registrations generally
Status: in_force

(a) The commission in any county may hold such supplemental registrations as it deems necessary before any election in locations other than the commission office. (b) In addition to any supplemental voter registration otherwise required by this chapter, the county election commission, or its designee, in each county shall conduct at least one (1) supplemental voter registration each year at every public and private high school in the county, for the purpose of registration of those persons who will be eligible to vote in the next election. The publication requirements of § 2-2-114 shall not apply to the registration required by this subsection (b). (c) As used in this section, "designees" does not include representatives of a nationally recognized political party or representatives of an organization which actively seeks to influence the outcome of an election. (d) In addition to any supplemental voter registration otherwise required by this chapter, the county election commission, or its designee, shall conduct a supplemental voter registration when a planned and scheduled group naturalization ceremony is held within the county. The county election commission shall attend the supplemental voter registration in person or shall send one (1) or more assistant registrars or other designees in their stead to register such new citizens. The publication requirements of § 2-2-114 shall not apply to the registration required by this subsection (d). (e) Each high school shall inform each high school senior that upon reaching the age of eighteen (18) the student may be eligible to vote and shall provide information from the secretary of state about voter eligibility and how to register to vote, including the date and time of the supplemental voter registration conducted at the student's high school pursuant to subsection (b). This subsection (e) is not penal in nature. No punitive measures may be taken against the person tasked by the high school to provide the information. Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 444, s 1, eff. 5/17/2023. Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 842, s 1, eff. 4/26/2018. Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 231, s 2, eff. 7/1/2013. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-211; Acts 1980, ch. 715, §§ 1-4; ch. 772, § 1; 1982, ch. 588, § 1; ch. 719, §§ 1, 2; 1983, ch. 335, § 1; T.C.A. § 2-2-112(b) ; Acts 1991, ch. 103, §§ 1, 3; 2004, ch. 472, § 1.
(a) The commission in any county may hold such supplemental registrations as it deems necessary before any election in locations other than the commission office.
(b) In addition to any supplemental voter registration otherwise required by this chapter, the county election commission, or its designee, in each county shall conduct at least one (1) supplemental voter registration each year at every public and private high school in the county, for the purpose of registration of those persons who will be eligible to vote in the next election. The publication requirements of § 2-2-114 shall not apply to the registration required by this subsection (b).
(c) As used in this section, "designees" does not include representatives of a nationally recognized political party or representatives of an organization which actively seeks to influence the outcome of an election.
(d) In addition to any supplemental voter registration otherwise required by this chapter, the county election commission, or its designee, shall conduct a supplemental voter registration when a planned and scheduled group naturalization ceremony is held within the county. The county election commission shall attend the supplemental voter registration in person or shall send one (1) or more assistant registrars or other designees in their stead to register such new citizens. The publication requirements of § 2-2-114 shall not apply to the registration required by this subsection (d).
(e) Each high school shall inform each high school senior that upon reaching the age of eighteen (18) the student may be eligible to vote and shall provide information from the secretary of state about voter eligibility and how to register to vote, including the date and time of the supplemental voter registration conducted at the student's high school pursuant to subsection (b). This subsection (e) is not penal in nature. No punitive measures may be taken against the person tasked by the high school to provide the information.
Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 444, s 1, eff. 5/17/2023.
Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 842, s 1, eff. 4/26/2018.
Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 231, s 2, eff. 7/1/2013.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-211; Acts 1980, ch. 715, §§ 1-4; ch. 772, § 1; 1982, ch. 588, § 1; ch. 719, §§ 1, 2; 1983, ch. 335, § 1; T.C.A. § 2-2-112(b) ; Acts 1991, ch. 103, §§ 1, 3; 2004, ch. 472, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-10-214 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 10 / Section 2-10-214
Required training program for members of registry
Status: in_force

(a) A person who is appointed to the registry of election finance may not vote, deliberate, or be counted as a member in attendance at a meeting of the registry until the person completes a training program provided by the office of the attorney general and reporter that complies with this section. This section shall not apply to members who are reappointed to the registry. (b) The training program shall provide the person with information regarding: (1) The legislation that created the registry; (2) The role and function of the registry; (3) The rules of the registry, with an emphasis on the rules that relate to disciplinary and investigatory authority; (4) The current budget for the registry; (5) The results of the most recent formal audit of the registry; (6) The requirements of the campaign finance laws administered and enforced by the registry; and (7) Any applicable policies adopted by the registry. (c) A person appointed to the registry is entitled to reimbursement for expenses incurred in attending the training program. (d) This section shall apply prospectively to members appointed to the registry after February 15, 2006. Acts 2006 (1st Ex. Sess.), ch. 1, § 20.
(a) A person who is appointed to the registry of election finance may not vote, deliberate, or be counted as a member in attendance at a meeting of the registry until the person completes a training program provided by the office of the attorney general and reporter that complies with this section. This section shall not apply to members who are reappointed to the registry.
(b) The training program shall provide the person with information regarding: (1) The legislation that created the registry; (2) The role and function of the registry; (3) The rules of the registry, with an emphasis on the rules that relate to disciplinary and investigatory authority; (4) The current budget for the registry; (5) The results of the most recent formal audit of the registry; (6) The requirements of the campaign finance laws administered and enforced by the registry; and (7) Any applicable policies adopted by the registry.
(1) The legislation that created the registry;
(2) The role and function of the registry;
(3) The rules of the registry, with an emphasis on the rules that relate to disciplinary and investigatory authority;
(4) The current budget for the registry;
(5) The results of the most recent formal audit of the registry;
(6) The requirements of the campaign finance laws administered and enforced by the registry; and
(7) Any applicable policies adopted by the registry.
(c) A person appointed to the registry is entitled to reimbursement for expenses incurred in attending the training program.
(d) This section shall apply prospectively to members appointed to the registry after February 15, 2006.
Acts 2006 (1st Ex. Sess.), ch. 1, § 20.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-7-110 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 7 / Section 2-7-110
Examination and final preparation of machines
Status: in_force

(a) The officer shall give the sealed voting machine keys to the judges to prepare the machines for voting. The envelope containing the keys may not be opened until the judges have examined it to see that it has not been opened and that the number registered on the protective counter and the number on the seal with which the machine is sealed correspond with the numbers written on the envelope containing the keys. (b) If the envelope has been torn open, or if the numbers do not correspond, or if any other discrepancy is found, the judges shall immediately inform the voting machine technician of the facts. The voting machine technician or the technician's assistant shall promptly examine the machine and certify whether it is properly arranged. (c) If the number on the seal and the protective counter are found to agree with the numbers on the envelope, the judges shall then open the door concealing the counters and carefully examine every counter to see that it registers zero (000) and shall also allow the watchers to examine them. The judges shall then sign a certificate showing the delivery of the keys in a sealed envelope, the number on the seal, the number registered on the protective counter, that all the counters are set at zero (000), and that the ballot labels are properly placed in the machine. (d) If any counter is found not to register at zero (000) and if it is impracticable for the voting machine technician to arrive in time to adjust the counters before the time set for opening the polls, the judges shall immediately make a written statement of the designating letter and number, if any, of such counter, together with the number registered thereon, and shall sign and post the statement on the wall of the polling place where it shall remain throughout the election day. In filling out the tally sheets, they shall subtract such number from the number then registered on such counter. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-710.
(a) The officer shall give the sealed voting machine keys to the judges to prepare the machines for voting. The envelope containing the keys may not be opened until the judges have examined it to see that it has not been opened and that the number registered on the protective counter and the number on the seal with which the machine is sealed correspond with the numbers written on the envelope containing the keys.
(b) If the envelope has been torn open, or if the numbers do not correspond, or if any other discrepancy is found, the judges shall immediately inform the voting machine technician of the facts. The voting machine technician or the technician's assistant shall promptly examine the machine and certify whether it is properly arranged.
(c) If the number on the seal and the protective counter are found to agree with the numbers on the envelope, the judges shall then open the door concealing the counters and carefully examine every counter to see that it registers zero (000) and shall also allow the watchers to examine them. The judges shall then sign a certificate showing the delivery of the keys in a sealed envelope, the number on the seal, the number registered on the protective counter, that all the counters are set at zero (000), and that the ballot labels are properly placed in the machine.
(d) If any counter is found not to register at zero (000) and if it is impracticable for the voting machine technician to arrive in time to adjust the counters before the time set for opening the polls, the judges shall immediately make a written statement of the designating letter and number, if any, of such counter, together with the number registered thereon, and shall sign and post the statement on the wall of the polling place where it shall remain throughout the election day. In filling out the tally sheets, they shall subtract such number from the number then registered on such counter.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-710.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-13-314 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 13 / Section 2-13-314
Allocation of delegates-at-large and alternates
Status: in_force

(a) Delegates-at-large and alternates shall be allocated among the presidential candidates or an uncommitted designation so that the proportion of total delegates committed to any candidate shall equal, as mathematically as is possible, the proportion of the vote received by that candidate. (b) In no event shall the candidate receiving the greatest number of votes receive fewer district and at-large delegates than the candidate with the next greatest number of votes. (c) If the total votes received by a presidential candidate in the state at large is less than fifteen percent (15%) of the votes cast, no delegate-at-large or alternates shall be allocated to such candidate and such votes of less than fifteen percent (15%) shall be considered as votes for the uncommitted designation. (d) Votes for the uncommitted designation shall be considered in the same manner as votes for presidential candidates in the allocation of delegates. Acts 1976, ch. 421, § 14; T.C.A., § 2-1354; Acts 1980, ch. 483, § 6.
(a) Delegates-at-large and alternates shall be allocated among the presidential candidates or an uncommitted designation so that the proportion of total delegates committed to any candidate shall equal, as mathematically as is possible, the proportion of the vote received by that candidate.
(b) In no event shall the candidate receiving the greatest number of votes receive fewer district and at-large delegates than the candidate with the next greatest number of votes.
(c) If the total votes received by a presidential candidate in the state at large is less than fifteen percent (15%) of the votes cast, no delegate-at-large or alternates shall be allocated to such candidate and such votes of less than fifteen percent (15%) shall be considered as votes for the uncommitted designation.
(d) Votes for the uncommitted designation shall be considered in the same manner as votes for presidential candidates in the allocation of delegates.
Acts 1976, ch. 421, § 14; T.C.A., § 2-1354; Acts 1980, ch. 483, § 6.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-9-103 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 9 / Section 2-9-103
Voting machine technicians
Status: in_force

(a) The representatives of each political party on the county election commission shall jointly appoint a voting machine technician who is a member of their political party and who is qualified by training or experience to prepare and maintain the voting machines, and the county election commission shall appoint as many assistants as may be necessary for the proper preparation of the machines for elections and for their maintenance, storage, and care. (b) The voting machine technicians, under the direction of the commission, shall have charge of the voting machines and shall represent the commission during the preparation of the voting machines. (c) The voting machine technicians shall serve at the pleasure of the commissioners who appointed them. The assistants shall serve at the pleasure of the commission. (d) The commission shall fix the compensation of the voting machine technicians and assistants commensurate with the work required. (e) Duties imposed on the voting machine technician by this chapter shall be performed jointly by the voting machine technicians. (f) (1) Any voting machine technician appointed by the county election commission who performs such duties on a part-time basis and who has other full-time employment shall be excused without pay from such full-time employment for the days required for the performance of the technician's duties. (2) No employer of a voting machine technician being excused from employment pursuant to this section shall require such technician to use vacation time or other leave time for the days such technician has been excused from employment to perform the technician's duties. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-903; Acts 1998, ch. 741, § 1.
(a) The representatives of each political party on the county election commission shall jointly appoint a voting machine technician who is a member of their political party and who is qualified by training or experience to prepare and maintain the voting machines, and the county election commission shall appoint as many assistants as may be necessary for the proper preparation of the machines for elections and for their maintenance, storage, and care.
(b) The voting machine technicians, under the direction of the commission, shall have charge of the voting machines and shall represent the commission during the preparation of the voting machines.
(c) The voting machine technicians shall serve at the pleasure of the commissioners who appointed them. The assistants shall serve at the pleasure of the commission.
(d) The commission shall fix the compensation of the voting machine technicians and assistants commensurate with the work required.
(e) Duties imposed on the voting machine technician by this chapter shall be performed jointly by the voting machine technicians.
(f) (1) Any voting machine technician appointed by the county election commission who performs such duties on a part-time basis and who has other full-time employment shall be excused without pay from such full-time employment for the days required for the performance of the technician's duties. (2) No employer of a voting machine technician being excused from employment pursuant to this section shall require such technician to use vacation time or other leave time for the days such technician has been excused from employment to perform the technician's duties.
(1) Any voting machine technician appointed by the county election commission who performs such duties on a part-time basis and who has other full-time employment shall be excused without pay from such full-time employment for the days required for the performance of the technician's duties.
(2) No employer of a voting machine technician being excused from employment pursuant to this section shall require such technician to use vacation time or other leave time for the days such technician has been excused from employment to perform the technician's duties.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-903; Acts 1998, ch. 741, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-10-209 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 10 / Section 2-10-209
Enforcement - Chancery court petitions and orders through attorney general and reporter - Retention of private outside counsel
Status: in_force

(a) The registry has the authority to petition the chancery court through the attorney general and reporter for enforcement of any order it has issued. The court's order of enforcement has the same force and effect as a civil judgment. (b) Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, the registry may, in lieu of filing the petition through the attorney general and reporter, retain private outside counsel to pursue the collection of unpaid civil penalties assessed by order of the registry. The venue for such a suit is the county in which the defendant resides. Amended by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 302, s 1, eff. 5/4/2021. Acts 1989, ch. 585, § 8.
(a) The registry has the authority to petition the chancery court through the attorney general and reporter for enforcement of any order it has issued. The court's order of enforcement has the same force and effect as a civil judgment.
(b) Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, the registry may, in lieu of filing the petition through the attorney general and reporter, retain private outside counsel to pursue the collection of unpaid civil penalties assessed by order of the registry. The venue for such a suit is the county in which the defendant resides.
Amended by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 302, s 1, eff. 5/4/2021.
Acts 1989, ch. 585, § 8.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-7-134 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 7 / Section 2-7-134
Return of keys at close of election
Status: in_force

After the tally sheets have been certified, the judges shall close and lock the voting machines and enclose the keys for each voting machine in a separate sealed envelope on which they shall certify the number of the machine, the polling place where it has been used, the number on the seal, and the numbers registered on the public and protective counters. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-734.
After the tally sheets have been certified, the judges shall close and lock the voting machines and enclose the keys for each voting machine in a separate sealed envelope on which they shall certify the number of the machine, the polling place where it has been used, the number on the seal, and the numbers registered on the public and protective counters.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-734.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-3-101 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 3 / Section 2-3-101
Polling places - Designation - Relocation
Status: in_force

(a) (1) All elections shall be held in polling places designated by the county election commission. (2) (A) Each polling place shall be in the precinct it is to serve except for municipal elections not held in conjunction with: (i) Any primary election; (ii) The regular August or November general elections; (iii) Any special primary or special general election for state or federal offices; or (iv) The presidential preference primary. (B) Where a municipal election is not held in conjunction with an election specified in subdivision (a)(2)(A) and if a polling place is located outside of the boundaries of a municipality but the precinct the polling place serves includes residents of the municipality, the county election commission may designate a polling place outside, but closest to the geographic precinct within the limits of the municipality, of the precinct it is to serve. The county election commission may, upon request from a municipality, consolidate one (1) or more polling places, from one (1) or more precincts, within the limits of the municipality. (C) Immediately after the consolidation of one (1) or more polling places, from one (1) or more precincts within the limits of the municipality, the county election commission shall publish a notice of the consolidation in a newspaper of general circulation in the county. The county election commission shall mail to each active voter whose polling place is affected, a notice of the new polling place and the precinct number. The county election commission shall give written notification of the consolidation to the comptroller of the treasury. (3) If a county election commission determines that there is no place within a precinct which meets the requirements of this title for polling places, it shall designate the nearest available and suitable place no more than one-half (1/2) mile from the precinct boundary as the polling place except in an emergency. If no accessible polling place is available within the precinct, or, within the one-half (1/2) mile limit outside the precinct, with the approval of the state coordinator of elections, the county election commission may designate a suitable place within three (3) miles. (4) No polling place location may be changed within ten (10) days of an election except in an emergency. (b) (1) In any county having a metropolitan form of government and a population greater than one hundred thousand (100,000), according to the 1980 federal census or any subsequent federal census, if space is available, no more than one (1) polling place for a precinct may be located in the same room. (2) At least thirty (30) days before a polling place is relocated, the county election commission shall mail a notice of intent to relocate to the elected officials representing the affected area. Such notice of intent shall be mailed to the candidates before the time the voters are notified of the change as provided in § 2-3-105 . The provisions of this subdivision (b)(2) shall only apply to any county having a metropolitan form of government and a population greater than one hundred thousand (100,000), according to the 1980 federal census or any subsequent federal census. (c) Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, if a municipality is located within two (2) or more counties of the state, then the county election commissions of each respective county may, by written mutual agreement of the counties, designate one (1) polling place outside the boundaries of one (1) of the respective counties; provided, that the polling place is located within the limits of the municipality and within five hundred feet (500') of the county boundary line. Voters residing within the precinct are authorized to vote at the polling place established by the county election commissions in accordance with this subsection (c). Amended by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 194, s 1, eff. 4/22/2021. Amended by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 697, s 1, eff. 4/15/2014. Amended by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 488, Secs.s 1, s 2 eff. 2/13/2014. Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 372, s 1, Sec.s 2 eff. 5/14/2013. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-301; Acts 1989, ch. 78, §§ 1, 2; 1997 , ch. 558, § 6; 2012 , ch. 995, § 1.
(a) (1) All elections shall be held in polling places designated by the county election commission. (2) (A) Each polling place shall be in the precinct it is to serve except for municipal elections not held in conjunction with: (i) Any primary election; (ii) The regular August or November general elections; (iii) Any special primary or special general election for state or federal offices; or (iv) The presidential preference primary. (B) Where a municipal election is not held in conjunction with an election specified in subdivision (a)(2)(A) and if a polling place is located outside of the boundaries of a municipality but the precinct the polling place serves includes residents of the municipality, the county election commission may designate a polling place outside, but closest to the geographic precinct within the limits of the municipality, of the precinct it is to serve. The county election commission may, upon request from a municipality, consolidate one (1) or more polling places, from one (1) or more precincts, within the limits of the municipality. (C) Immediately after the consolidation of one (1) or more polling places, from one (1) or more precincts within the limits of the municipality, the county election commission shall publish a notice of the consolidation in a newspaper of general circulation in the county. The county election commission shall mail to each active voter whose polling place is affected, a notice of the new polling place and the precinct number. The county election commission shall give written notification of the consolidation to the comptroller of the treasury. (3) If a county election commission determines that there is no place within a precinct which meets the requirements of this title for polling places, it shall designate the nearest available and suitable place no more than one-half (1/2) mile from the precinct boundary as the polling place except in an emergency. If no accessible polling place is available within the precinct, or, within the one-half (1/2) mile limit outside the precinct, with the approval of the state coordinator of elections, the county election commission may designate a suitable place within three (3) miles. (4) No polling place location may be changed within ten (10) days of an election except in an emergency.
(1) All elections shall be held in polling places designated by the county election commission.
(2) (A) Each polling place shall be in the precinct it is to serve except for municipal elections not held in conjunction with: (i) Any primary election; (ii) The regular August or November general elections; (iii) Any special primary or special general election for state or federal offices; or (iv) The presidential preference primary. (B) Where a municipal election is not held in conjunction with an election specified in subdivision (a)(2)(A) and if a polling place is located outside of the boundaries of a municipality but the precinct the polling place serves includes residents of the municipality, the county election commission may designate a polling place outside, but closest to the geographic precinct within the limits of the municipality, of the precinct it is to serve. The county election commission may, upon request from a municipality, consolidate one (1) or more polling places, from one (1) or more precincts, within the limits of the municipality. (C) Immediately after the consolidation of one (1) or more polling places, from one (1) or more precincts within the limits of the municipality, the county election commission shall publish a notice of the consolidation in a newspaper of general circulation in the county. The county election commission shall mail to each active voter whose polling place is affected, a notice of the new polling place and the precinct number. The county election commission shall give written notification of the consolidation to the comptroller of the treasury.
(A) Each polling place shall be in the precinct it is to serve except for municipal elections not held in conjunction with: (i) Any primary election; (ii) The regular August or November general elections; (iii) Any special primary or special general election for state or federal offices; or (iv) The presidential preference primary.
(i) Any primary election;
(ii) The regular August or November general elections;
(iii) Any special primary or special general election for state or federal offices; or
(iv) The presidential preference primary.
(B) Where a municipal election is not held in conjunction with an election specified in subdivision (a)(2)(A) and if a polling place is located outside of the boundaries of a municipality but the precinct the polling place serves includes residents of the municipality, the county election commission may designate a polling place outside, but closest to the geographic precinct within the limits of the municipality, of the precinct it is to serve. The county election commission may, upon request from a municipality, consolidate one (1) or more polling places, from one (1) or more precincts, within the limits of the municipality.
(C) Immediately after the consolidation of one (1) or more polling places, from one (1) or more precincts within the limits of the municipality, the county election commission shall publish a notice of the consolidation in a newspaper of general circulation in the county. The county election commission shall mail to each active voter whose polling place is affected, a notice of the new polling place and the precinct number. The county election commission shall give written notification of the consolidation to the comptroller of the treasury.
(3) If a county election commission determines that there is no place within a precinct which meets the requirements of this title for polling places, it shall designate the nearest available and suitable place no more than one-half (1/2) mile from the precinct boundary as the polling place except in an emergency. If no accessible polling place is available within the precinct, or, within the one-half (1/2) mile limit outside the precinct, with the approval of the state coordinator of elections, the county election commission may designate a suitable place within three (3) miles.
(4) No polling place location may be changed within ten (10) days of an election except in an emergency.
(b) (1) In any county having a metropolitan form of government and a population greater than one hundred thousand (100,000), according to the 1980 federal census or any subsequent federal census, if space is available, no more than one (1) polling place for a precinct may be located in the same room. (2) At least thirty (30) days before a polling place is relocated, the county election commission shall mail a notice of intent to relocate to the elected officials representing the affected area. Such notice of intent shall be mailed to the candidates before the time the voters are notified of the change as provided in § 2-3-105 . The provisions of this subdivision (b)(2) shall only apply to any county having a metropolitan form of government and a population greater than one hundred thousand (100,000), according to the 1980 federal census or any subsequent federal census.
(1) In any county having a metropolitan form of government and a population greater than one hundred thousand (100,000), according to the 1980 federal census or any subsequent federal census, if space is available, no more than one (1) polling place for a precinct may be located in the same room.
(2) At least thirty (30) days before a polling place is relocated, the county election commission shall mail a notice of intent to relocate to the elected officials representing the affected area. Such notice of intent shall be mailed to the candidates before the time the voters are notified of the change as provided in § 2-3-105 . The provisions of this subdivision (b)(2) shall only apply to any county having a metropolitan form of government and a population greater than one hundred thousand (100,000), according to the 1980 federal census or any subsequent federal census.
(c) Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, if a municipality is located within two (2) or more counties of the state, then the county election commissions of each respective county may, by written mutual agreement of the counties, designate one (1) polling place outside the boundaries of one (1) of the respective counties; provided, that the polling place is located within the limits of the municipality and within five hundred feet (500') of the county boundary line. Voters residing within the precinct are authorized to vote at the polling place established by the county election commissions in accordance with this subsection (c).
Amended by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 194, s 1, eff. 4/22/2021.
Amended by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 697, s 1, eff. 4/15/2014.
Amended by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 488, Secs.s 1, s 2 eff. 2/13/2014.
Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 372, s 1, Sec.s 2 eff. 5/14/2013.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-301; Acts 1989, ch. 78, §§ 1, 2; 1997 , ch. 558, § 6; 2012 , ch. 995, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-10-117 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 10 / Section 2-10-117
[Repealed] Reserved
Status: repealed

Repealed by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1087, s 6, eff. 5/27/2022. Acts 1995, ch. 531, § 10; 2009 , ch. 319, § 1.
Repealed by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1087, s 6, eff. 5/27/2022.
Acts 1995, ch. 531, § 10; 2009 , ch. 319, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-11-113 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 11 / Section 2-11-113
Removal of member by general assembly
Status: in_force

The general assembly, by joint resolution, may remove a member of the state election commission for cause and may remove a member who becomes unqualified. Added by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 250,s 8, eff. 10/1/2019.
The general assembly, by joint resolution, may remove a member of the state election commission for cause and may remove a member who becomes unqualified.
Added by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 250,s 8, eff. 10/1/2019.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-2-207 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 2 / Section 2-2-207
Rules
Status: in_force

The commissioner of safety in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5, and the coordinator of elections in accordance with § 2-11-201(c) , may promulgate rules to effectuate this part and § 2-2-106 . Acts 1994, ch. 947, § 9.
The commissioner of safety in accordance with the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in title 4, chapter 5, and the coordinator of elections in accordance with § 2-11-201(c) , may promulgate rules to effectuate this part and § 2-2-106 .
Acts 1994, ch. 947, § 9.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-4-101 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 4 / Section 2-4-101
Officials conducting elections
Status: in_force

All elections shall be held by election officials appointed under this title. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-401.
All elections shall be held by election officials appointed under this title.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-401.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-6-305 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 6 / Section 2-6-305
Election laws applicable
Status: in_force

The provisions of chapter 7 of this title with respect to challenge and poll watchers apply to the central absentee ballot counting board. A poll watcher may not leave and reenter the absentee ballot counting after the challenge process has been completed and the counting board begins to count the votes without the permission of the administrator of elections or the administrator's designee. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., §§ 2-619, 2-6-119; Acts 1994, ch. 859, § 2.
The provisions of chapter 7 of this title with respect to challenge and poll watchers apply to the central absentee ballot counting board. A poll watcher may not leave and reenter the absentee ballot counting after the challenge process has been completed and the counting board begins to count the votes without the permission of the administrator of elections or the administrator's designee.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., §§ 2-619, 2-6-119; Acts 1994, ch. 859, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-8-110 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 8 / Section 2-8-110
Public calculation and comparison of votes - Declaration of election - Certificates of election
Status: in_force

(a) The governor, secretary of state and attorney general and reporter shall, as soon as the returns are received, publicly calculate and compare the votes received by each person for the office of member of the general assembly, presidential and vice presidential elector, member of congress, judge, chancellor, or district attorney general, and declare the person receiving the highest number of votes elected. (b) The secretary of state shall assure the preservation of the original certification of results executed under this section. (c) The governor shall furnish each person elected with a certificate of election, which shall also be a commission of office, signed by the governor and the secretary of state. The certificate shall be prima facie evidence of election. A duplicate original of the certificate of election as United States senator shall be sent to the president of the United States senate. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; 1979, ch. 306, § 3; T.C.A., § 2-810; Acts 1981, ch. 478, § 18; 1995, ch. 305, § 57.
(a) The governor, secretary of state and attorney general and reporter shall, as soon as the returns are received, publicly calculate and compare the votes received by each person for the office of member of the general assembly, presidential and vice presidential elector, member of congress, judge, chancellor, or district attorney general, and declare the person receiving the highest number of votes elected.
(b) The secretary of state shall assure the preservation of the original certification of results executed under this section.
(c) The governor shall furnish each person elected with a certificate of election, which shall also be a commission of office, signed by the governor and the secretary of state. The certificate shall be prima facie evidence of election. A duplicate original of the certificate of election as United States senator shall be sent to the president of the United States senate.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; 1979, ch. 306, § 3; T.C.A., § 2-810; Acts 1981, ch. 478, § 18; 1995, ch. 305, § 57.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-3-107 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 3 / Section 2-3-107
Polling places - Physical requirements - Use of public buildings - Rentals for private buildings
Status: in_force

(a) The county election commission shall designate as polling places only rooms which have adequate heat, light, space and other facilities, including a sufficient number of electrical outlets where voting machines are used, for the comfortable and orderly conduct of elections. (b) (1) (A) The commission shall, insofar as practicable, arrange for the use of public schools and other public buildings for polling places on election day and during the early voting period. (B) (i) If the county election commission has arranged for the use of a public school or a public charter school as a polling place for a presidential primary election or regular November election, as defined in § 2-1-104 , then the LEA or the public charter school, respectively, shall be closed for instruction on the election day. The LEA or the public charter school may use the day as an in-service day for school personnel. (ii) An LEA or public charter school may choose to be open or closed for instruction on election days other than days on which a presidential primary election or regular November election occurs. If an LEA or public charter school chooses to close on an election day, then the LEA or public charter school may use the day as an in-service day for school personnel. (iii) Before adopting a calendar for a school year, each LEA and public charter school shall consult with the county election commission as to the elections that are scheduled to be conducted during the school year for which the calendar is to be adopted. (2) Upon application of the commission, the authority which has the control of any building or grounds supported by taxation under the laws of this state shall make available the necessary space for the purpose of holding elections and adequate space for the storage of voting machines without charge. A reasonable sum may be paid for necessary extra janitor service. If a state park is to be used as a voting location, the park must establish the site for the polling place at least one (1) year prior to the date of the election, and the location of the polling site within the park may not change without the consent of the county election committee. (c) When polling places are established in private buildings, the commission may pay a reasonable rental. Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 573,s 1, eff. 3/15/2024. Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 867, s 1, eff. 1/1/2019. Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 231, s 3, eff. 7/1/2013. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-312; Acts 2001, ch. 413, § 6.
(a) The county election commission shall designate as polling places only rooms which have adequate heat, light, space and other facilities, including a sufficient number of electrical outlets where voting machines are used, for the comfortable and orderly conduct of elections.
(b) (1) (A) The commission shall, insofar as practicable, arrange for the use of public schools and other public buildings for polling places on election day and during the early voting period. (B) (i) If the county election commission has arranged for the use of a public school or a public charter school as a polling place for a presidential primary election or regular November election, as defined in § 2-1-104 , then the LEA or the public charter school, respectively, shall be closed for instruction on the election day. The LEA or the public charter school may use the day as an in-service day for school personnel. (ii) An LEA or public charter school may choose to be open or closed for instruction on election days other than days on which a presidential primary election or regular November election occurs. If an LEA or public charter school chooses to close on an election day, then the LEA or public charter school may use the day as an in-service day for school personnel. (iii) Before adopting a calendar for a school year, each LEA and public charter school shall consult with the county election commission as to the elections that are scheduled to be conducted during the school year for which the calendar is to be adopted. (2) Upon application of the commission, the authority which has the control of any building or grounds supported by taxation under the laws of this state shall make available the necessary space for the purpose of holding elections and adequate space for the storage of voting machines without charge. A reasonable sum may be paid for necessary extra janitor service. If a state park is to be used as a voting location, the park must establish the site for the polling place at least one (1) year prior to the date of the election, and the location of the polling site within the park may not change without the consent of the county election committee.
(1) (A) The commission shall, insofar as practicable, arrange for the use of public schools and other public buildings for polling places on election day and during the early voting period. (B) (i) If the county election commission has arranged for the use of a public school or a public charter school as a polling place for a presidential primary election or regular November election, as defined in § 2-1-104 , then the LEA or the public charter school, respectively, shall be closed for instruction on the election day. The LEA or the public charter school may use the day as an in-service day for school personnel. (ii) An LEA or public charter school may choose to be open or closed for instruction on election days other than days on which a presidential primary election or regular November election occurs. If an LEA or public charter school chooses to close on an election day, then the LEA or public charter school may use the day as an in-service day for school personnel. (iii) Before adopting a calendar for a school year, each LEA and public charter school shall consult with the county election commission as to the elections that are scheduled to be conducted during the school year for which the calendar is to be adopted.
(A) The commission shall, insofar as practicable, arrange for the use of public schools and other public buildings for polling places on election day and during the early voting period.
(B) (i) If the county election commission has arranged for the use of a public school or a public charter school as a polling place for a presidential primary election or regular November election, as defined in § 2-1-104 , then the LEA or the public charter school, respectively, shall be closed for instruction on the election day. The LEA or the public charter school may use the day as an in-service day for school personnel. (ii) An LEA or public charter school may choose to be open or closed for instruction on election days other than days on which a presidential primary election or regular November election occurs. If an LEA or public charter school chooses to close on an election day, then the LEA or public charter school may use the day as an in-service day for school personnel. (iii) Before adopting a calendar for a school year, each LEA and public charter school shall consult with the county election commission as to the elections that are scheduled to be conducted during the school year for which the calendar is to be adopted.
(i) If the county election commission has arranged for the use of a public school or a public charter school as a polling place for a presidential primary election or regular November election, as defined in § 2-1-104 , then the LEA or the public charter school, respectively, shall be closed for instruction on the election day. The LEA or the public charter school may use the day as an in-service day for school personnel.
(ii) An LEA or public charter school may choose to be open or closed for instruction on election days other than days on which a presidential primary election or regular November election occurs. If an LEA or public charter school chooses to close on an election day, then the LEA or public charter school may use the day as an in-service day for school personnel.
(iii) Before adopting a calendar for a school year, each LEA and public charter school shall consult with the county election commission as to the elections that are scheduled to be conducted during the school year for which the calendar is to be adopted.
(2) Upon application of the commission, the authority which has the control of any building or grounds supported by taxation under the laws of this state shall make available the necessary space for the purpose of holding elections and adequate space for the storage of voting machines without charge. A reasonable sum may be paid for necessary extra janitor service. If a state park is to be used as a voting location, the park must establish the site for the polling place at least one (1) year prior to the date of the election, and the location of the polling site within the park may not change without the consent of the county election committee.
(c) When polling places are established in private buildings, the commission may pay a reasonable rental.
Amended by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 573,s 1, eff. 3/15/2024.
Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 867, s 1, eff. 1/1/2019.
Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 231, s 3, eff. 7/1/2013.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-312; Acts 2001, ch. 413, § 6.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-18-106 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 18 / Section 2-18-106
Committee on the governor's election
Status: in_force

(a) If it appears to the convention that to sustain any of the objections would change the result, a committee shall be appointed as the "Committee on the Governor's Election" and the candidate who prevails on the face of the returns shall then be permitted to file objections as were the other claimants. (b) The committee shall be composed of seven (7) members of the house of representatives, appointed by the speaker of the house of representatives, not more than four (4) of whom may belong to the same political party, and five (5) members of the senate, appointed by the speaker of the senate, not more than three (3) of whom may belong to the same political party. (c) Vacancies in the committee from death or other causes shall be filled by appointment by the speaker of the senate or the speaker of the house of representatives who appointed the original member. (d) They shall elect one (1) of their number chair. (e) Any seven (7) shall constitute a quorum, and a majority of a subcommittee shall constitute a quorum thereof. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; 1978, ch. 754, § 16; T.C.A., § 2-1806.
(a) If it appears to the convention that to sustain any of the objections would change the result, a committee shall be appointed as the "Committee on the Governor's Election" and the candidate who prevails on the face of the returns shall then be permitted to file objections as were the other claimants.
(b) The committee shall be composed of seven (7) members of the house of representatives, appointed by the speaker of the house of representatives, not more than four (4) of whom may belong to the same political party, and five (5) members of the senate, appointed by the speaker of the senate, not more than three (3) of whom may belong to the same political party.
(c) Vacancies in the committee from death or other causes shall be filled by appointment by the speaker of the senate or the speaker of the house of representatives who appointed the original member.
(d) They shall elect one (1) of their number chair.
(e) Any seven (7) shall constitute a quorum, and a majority of a subcommittee shall constitute a quorum thereof.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; 1978, ch. 754, § 16; T.C.A., § 2-1806.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-7-109 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 7 / Section 2-7-109
Ballot boxes - Locked during voting
Status: in_force

The officer of elections shall show the ballot box to the judges who shall verify that it is empty, and the officer shall then lock the ballot box before the polling place is open for voting. The ballot box shall remain locked until the votes are to be counted after voting has ended. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-709.
The officer of elections shall show the ballot box to the judges who shall verify that it is empty, and the officer shall then lock the ballot box before the polling place is open for voting. The ballot box shall remain locked until the votes are to be counted after voting has ended.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-709.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-2-125 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 2 / Section 2-2-125
Rejected registration - Right to appeal - Reports of violations
Status: in_force

(a) If the administrator of elections determines that the registrant is not entitled to be registered, the administrator shall tell the registrant the reason, write the reason on the back of the original permanent registration record, and file the original and the duplicate alphabetically in a binder of rejected registrations. (b) The administrator shall tell the registrant that the registrant has a right to appeal the decision to the commission within ten (10) days and offer the registrant an appeal form. (c) The action of the commission on the registrant's application for registration on appeal shall be a final administrative action. (d) If the commission determines, after notice and hearing for the appellant, that the appellant was not entitled to register, the commission shall give the appellant a written statement of its reasons for so holding. (e) If the commission believes that the appellant has violated the law in registering, it shall report the matter to the grand jury and the district attorney general. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-225.
(a) If the administrator of elections determines that the registrant is not entitled to be registered, the administrator shall tell the registrant the reason, write the reason on the back of the original permanent registration record, and file the original and the duplicate alphabetically in a binder of rejected registrations.
(b) The administrator shall tell the registrant that the registrant has a right to appeal the decision to the commission within ten (10) days and offer the registrant an appeal form.
(c) The action of the commission on the registrant's application for registration on appeal shall be a final administrative action.
(d) If the commission determines, after notice and hearing for the appellant, that the appellant was not entitled to register, the commission shall give the appellant a written statement of its reasons for so holding.
(e) If the commission believes that the appellant has violated the law in registering, it shall report the matter to the grand jury and the district attorney general.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-225.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-2-109 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 2 / Section 2-2-109
Registration periods
Status: in_force

(a) A qualified voter may register or have the voter's registration altered at the commission office at any time the office is open, except that applications for registration shall not be processed for twenty-nine (29) days before an election, except as provided in subsection (b); provided, that a qualified voter may file a mail registration form by postmarking the registration form or submitting the registration form thirty (30) days before an election. A mail registration form lacking a postmark, but signed and dated at least thirty (30) days before an election, shall be timely filed if it is received by the county election commission no later than the twenty-seventh day prior to the election. A qualified voter may correct a deficient but timely filed mail registration form if the voter files a completed registration application or otherwise corrects the deficiency on or before the next regularly scheduled November general election. The administrator of elections shall register the person to vote if the person is otherwise eligible to register. Deficient registrations not corrected on or before the next regularly scheduled November general election shall no longer be considered deficient and shall be void. The administrator shall be empowered to update an existing registration until no later than five (5) days before an election to place it within the correct precinct in the county when a voter changes the voter's address through the process described in § 2-7-140 . (b) When the thirtieth day before an election falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday, applications for registration shall be accepted and processed the next business day following such Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday. This extends the deadline for applications for registration completed at the county election commission office as well as the deadline for having a by-mail registration form postmarked. (c) When elections are being held in two (2) or more voting districts within any county, the time period for such registration or alteration of permanent registration records shall be calculated for each election separately, and such registration or alteration of permanent registration records is not prohibited in one (1) election because it is twenty-nine (29) days prior to another within the same county. Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 827,s 1, eff. 4/21/2016. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-209; Acts 1980, ch. 678, § 1; 1980, ch. 728, § 1; 1994, ch. 919, § 4; 1995, ch. 76, § 3; 1997, ch. 550, § 3; 2000, ch. 756, § 1; 2001, ch. 413, § 9; 2002, ch. 698, § 3; 2007, ch. 125, § 1; 2008, ch. 928, § 1; 2013, ch. 179, § 2; 2013, ch. 231, § 1; 2014, ch. 724, § 2.
(a) A qualified voter may register or have the voter's registration altered at the commission office at any time the office is open, except that applications for registration shall not be processed for twenty-nine (29) days before an election, except as provided in subsection (b); provided, that a qualified voter may file a mail registration form by postmarking the registration form or submitting the registration form thirty (30) days before an election. A mail registration form lacking a postmark, but signed and dated at least thirty (30) days before an election, shall be timely filed if it is received by the county election commission no later than the twenty-seventh day prior to the election. A qualified voter may correct a deficient but timely filed mail registration form if the voter files a completed registration application or otherwise corrects the deficiency on or before the next regularly scheduled November general election. The administrator of elections shall register the person to vote if the person is otherwise eligible to register. Deficient registrations not corrected on or before the next regularly scheduled November general election shall no longer be considered deficient and shall be void. The administrator shall be empowered to update an existing registration until no later than five (5) days before an election to place it within the correct precinct in the county when a voter changes the voter's address through the process described in § 2-7-140 .
(b) When the thirtieth day before an election falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday, applications for registration shall be accepted and processed the next business day following such Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday. This extends the deadline for applications for registration completed at the county election commission office as well as the deadline for having a by-mail registration form postmarked.
(c) When elections are being held in two (2) or more voting districts within any county, the time period for such registration or alteration of permanent registration records shall be calculated for each election separately, and such registration or alteration of permanent registration records is not prohibited in one (1) election because it is twenty-nine (29) days prior to another within the same county.
Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 827,s 1, eff. 4/21/2016.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-209; Acts 1980, ch. 678, § 1; 1980, ch. 728, § 1; 1994, ch. 919, § 4; 1995, ch. 76, § 3; 1997, ch. 550, § 3; 2000, ch. 756, § 1; 2001, ch. 413, § 9; 2002, ch. 698, § 3; 2007, ch. 125, § 1; 2008, ch. 928, § 1; 2013, ch. 179, § 2; 2013, ch. 231, § 1; 2014, ch. 724, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-11-101 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 11 / Section 2-11-101
Composition of commission
Status: in_force

(a) The state election commission shall be composed of seven (7) members. (b) Wherever in this code the board of elections of the state is referred to, the term "state election commission" shall be substituted. Acts 1972, ch. 740, §§ 1, 6; 1975, ch. 72, §§ 1, 2; T.C.A., § 2-1101; Acts 2011, ch. 125, § 1.
(a) The state election commission shall be composed of seven (7) members.
(b) Wherever in this code the board of elections of the state is referred to, the term "state election commission" shall be substituted.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, §§ 1, 6; 1975, ch. 72, §§ 1, 2; T.C.A., § 2-1101; Acts 2011, ch. 125, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-11-105 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 11 / Section 2-11-105
Vacancies
Status: in_force

(a) Any person chosen to fill a vacancy shall be a bona fide member of the same party as the person such person replaces. (b) If a vacancy occurs in the membership of the state election commission at the time when the general assembly is in session, the vacancy may be filled by the general assembly in the same manner as full terms are. A person elected to fill a vacancy shall serve only for the remainder of the unexpired term of the member whose place such person fills. (c) If a vacancy occurs at a time when the general assembly is not in session, the vacancy shall be filled by the remaining members of the commission. If the remaining members of the commission are not able to agree on a successor to fill the vacancy within thirty (30) days of the time when such vacancy occurs, the secretary of state, the comptroller of the treasury, and the state treasurer, or a majority of those officers shall fill the vacancy. Persons selected to fill vacancies under this subsection (c) shall serve only until the next session of the general assembly, when the general assembly shall fill the vacancies as if they had occurred when the general assembly was in session. (d) If the general assembly adjourns without filling any vacancies, vacancies shall be filled in the same manner as if they had occurred when the general assembly was not in session. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1105.
(a) Any person chosen to fill a vacancy shall be a bona fide member of the same party as the person such person replaces.
(b) If a vacancy occurs in the membership of the state election commission at the time when the general assembly is in session, the vacancy may be filled by the general assembly in the same manner as full terms are. A person elected to fill a vacancy shall serve only for the remainder of the unexpired term of the member whose place such person fills.
(c) If a vacancy occurs at a time when the general assembly is not in session, the vacancy shall be filled by the remaining members of the commission. If the remaining members of the commission are not able to agree on a successor to fill the vacancy within thirty (30) days of the time when such vacancy occurs, the secretary of state, the comptroller of the treasury, and the state treasurer, or a majority of those officers shall fill the vacancy. Persons selected to fill vacancies under this subsection (c) shall serve only until the next session of the general assembly, when the general assembly shall fill the vacancies as if they had occurred when the general assembly was in session.
(d) If the general assembly adjourns without filling any vacancies, vacancies shall be filled in the same manner as if they had occurred when the general assembly was not in session.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1105.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-19-125 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 19 / Section 2-19-125
Bribing election officials
Status: in_force

It is unlawful for any person, directly or indirectly, personally or through any other person, to give or offer to give a bribe to any election official or to any administrator of elections or to any member of a board or commission holding office under this title as a consideration for any act done or omitted to be done contrary to such official's official duty under this title. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1925.
It is unlawful for any person, directly or indirectly, personally or through any other person, to give or offer to give a bribe to any election official or to any administrator of elections or to any member of a board or commission holding office under this title as a consideration for any act done or omitted to be done contrary to such official's official duty under this title.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1925.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-6-106 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 6 / Section 2-6-106
Voter unable to write signature or make mark - Assistance by person convicted of voter fraud prohibited
Status: in_force

(a) If an applicant or voter is so disabled that the applicant or voter cannot write a signature or make a mark where required, the action of the person who offers assistance shall be witnessed by one (1) additional person. Both the person giving assistance and the witness shall sign their names and provide their addresses. (b) Notwithstanding subsection (a), a person convicted of voter fraud in any state shall not assist a person in voting under this section. Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 271,s 2, eff. 4/30/2019. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-605; Acts 1980, ch. 638, § 10; T.C.A., § 2-6-105 ; Acts 1994, ch. 859, § 2.
(a) If an applicant or voter is so disabled that the applicant or voter cannot write a signature or make a mark where required, the action of the person who offers assistance shall be witnessed by one (1) additional person. Both the person giving assistance and the witness shall sign their names and provide their addresses.
(b) Notwithstanding subsection (a), a person convicted of voter fraud in any state shall not assist a person in voting under this section.
Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 271,s 2, eff. 4/30/2019.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-605; Acts 1980, ch. 638, § 10; T.C.A., § 2-6-105 ; Acts 1994, ch. 859, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-13-320 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 13 / Section 2-13-320
Election to fill vacancies in county legislative body - Date
Status: in_force

All other laws notwithstanding, any county which shall have a special election to fill a county legislative body vacancy to correspond with the date of the presidential preference primary previously set forth in the former law may by resolution of the county legislative body schedule such election to correspond with the date of the preferential presidential primary set forth in this part. Acts 1976, ch. 421, § 21; impl. am. Acts 1978, ch. 934, §§ 7, 36; T.C.A., § 2-1360.
All other laws notwithstanding, any county which shall have a special election to fill a county legislative body vacancy to correspond with the date of the presidential preference primary previously set forth in the former law may by resolution of the county legislative body schedule such election to correspond with the date of the preferential presidential primary set forth in this part.
Acts 1976, ch. 421, § 21; impl. am. Acts 1978, ch. 934, §§ 7, 36; T.C.A., § 2-1360.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-7-126 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 7 / Section 2-7-126
Challenge on ground of party membership
Status: in_force

A person offering to vote in a primary may also be challenged on the ground that the person is not qualified under § 2-7-115(b) . Such a challenge shall be disposed of under the procedure of §§ 2-7-123 - 2-7-125 by the judge or judges and the other election officials of the party in whose primary the voter applied to vote, with a total of three (3) to decide the challenge. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-726.
A person offering to vote in a primary may also be challenged on the ground that the person is not qualified under § 2-7-115(b) . Such a challenge shall be disposed of under the procedure of §§ 2-7-123 - 2-7-125 by the judge or judges and the other election officials of the party in whose primary the voter applied to vote, with a total of three (3) to decide the challenge.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-726.