Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-7-133 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 7 / Section 2-7-133
Ballots which may be counted
Status: in_force

(a) Only ballots provided in accordance with this title may be counted. The judges shall write "Void" on others and sign them. (b) If the voter marks more names than there are persons to be elected to an office, or if for any reason it is impossible to determine the voter's choice for any office to be filled or on a question, the voter's ballot shall not be counted for such office and shall be marked "Uncounted" beside the office and be signed by the judges. It shall be counted so far as it is properly marked or so far as it is possible to determine the voter's choice. (c) If two (2) ballots are rolled up together or are folded together, they shall not be counted. The judges shall write on them "Void" and the reason and sign them. (d) Any ballot marked by the voter for identification shall not be counted. The judges shall write on it "Void" and the reason and sign it. (e) Ballots which are not counted shall be kept together and shall be bundled separately from the ballots which are counted. (f) Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, if a voter marks a paper or optical scan ballot with a cross, "x", checkmark or any other appropriate mark within the square, circle or oval to the right of the candidate's name, or any place within the space in which the name appears, indicating an intent to vote for that candidate, it is a vote for the candidate whose name it is opposite. Underlining or circling the candidate's name would also constitute a vote. Any apparent erasure of a mark next to the name of a candidate may not be counted as a vote for that candidate if the voter makes another mark next to the name of one (1) or more different candidates for the same office and counting of the mark would result in an excess number of votes cast for the office. (g) If a voter casts more than one (1) vote for the same candidate for the same office, the first vote is valid and the remaining votes are invalid. (h) (1) Any person attempting to be elected by write-in ballots shall complete a notice requesting such person's ballots be counted in each county of the district no later than twelve o'clock (12:00) noon, prevailing time, fifty (50) days before the general election. Such person shall only have votes counted in counties where such notice was completed and timely filed. The notice shall be on a form prescribed by the coordinator of elections and shall not require signatures of any person other than the write-in candidate requesting ballots be counted. The coordinator of elections shall distribute such form to the county election commissions. Upon timely receiving the notice required by this subsection (h), the county election commission shall promptly inform the state coordinator of elections, the registry of election finance, as well as all other candidates participating in the affected election. A write-in candidate may withdraw the notice by filing a letter of withdrawal in the same manner as the original notice was filed no later than the fifth day before the election. (2) A candidate defeated in a primary election shall not complete a notice requesting write-in ballots to be counted in the general election under subdivision (h)(1), and any write-in votes cast for the candidate in the general election must not be counted. Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 250, s 4, eff. 10/1/2019. Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 128, s 1, eff. 4/9/2019. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-733; Acts 2001, ch. 413, §1; 2001, ch. 465, §§2 - 4; 2003 , ch. 307, § 4; 2005, ch. 302, §1; 2007 , ch. 125, §6; 2008 , ch. 928, §15; 2009 , ch. 218, § 6.
(a) Only ballots provided in accordance with this title may be counted. The judges shall write "Void" on others and sign them.
(b) If the voter marks more names than there are persons to be elected to an office, or if for any reason it is impossible to determine the voter's choice for any office to be filled or on a question, the voter's ballot shall not be counted for such office and shall be marked "Uncounted" beside the office and be signed by the judges. It shall be counted so far as it is properly marked or so far as it is possible to determine the voter's choice.
(c) If two (2) ballots are rolled up together or are folded together, they shall not be counted. The judges shall write on them "Void" and the reason and sign them.
(d) Any ballot marked by the voter for identification shall not be counted. The judges shall write on it "Void" and the reason and sign it.
(e) Ballots which are not counted shall be kept together and shall be bundled separately from the ballots which are counted.
(f) Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, if a voter marks a paper or optical scan ballot with a cross, "x", checkmark or any other appropriate mark within the square, circle or oval to the right of the candidate's name, or any place within the space in which the name appears, indicating an intent to vote for that candidate, it is a vote for the candidate whose name it is opposite. Underlining or circling the candidate's name would also constitute a vote. Any apparent erasure of a mark next to the name of a candidate may not be counted as a vote for that candidate if the voter makes another mark next to the name of one (1) or more different candidates for the same office and counting of the mark would result in an excess number of votes cast for the office.
(g) If a voter casts more than one (1) vote for the same candidate for the same office, the first vote is valid and the remaining votes are invalid.
(h) (1) Any person attempting to be elected by write-in ballots shall complete a notice requesting such person's ballots be counted in each county of the district no later than twelve o'clock (12:00) noon, prevailing time, fifty (50) days before the general election. Such person shall only have votes counted in counties where such notice was completed and timely filed. The notice shall be on a form prescribed by the coordinator of elections and shall not require signatures of any person other than the write-in candidate requesting ballots be counted. The coordinator of elections shall distribute such form to the county election commissions. Upon timely receiving the notice required by this subsection (h), the county election commission shall promptly inform the state coordinator of elections, the registry of election finance, as well as all other candidates participating in the affected election. A write-in candidate may withdraw the notice by filing a letter of withdrawal in the same manner as the original notice was filed no later than the fifth day before the election. (2) A candidate defeated in a primary election shall not complete a notice requesting write-in ballots to be counted in the general election under subdivision (h)(1), and any write-in votes cast for the candidate in the general election must not be counted.
(1) Any person attempting to be elected by write-in ballots shall complete a notice requesting such person's ballots be counted in each county of the district no later than twelve o'clock (12:00) noon, prevailing time, fifty (50) days before the general election. Such person shall only have votes counted in counties where such notice was completed and timely filed. The notice shall be on a form prescribed by the coordinator of elections and shall not require signatures of any person other than the write-in candidate requesting ballots be counted. The coordinator of elections shall distribute such form to the county election commissions. Upon timely receiving the notice required by this subsection (h), the county election commission shall promptly inform the state coordinator of elections, the registry of election finance, as well as all other candidates participating in the affected election. A write-in candidate may withdraw the notice by filing a letter of withdrawal in the same manner as the original notice was filed no later than the fifth day before the election.
(2) A candidate defeated in a primary election shall not complete a notice requesting write-in ballots to be counted in the general election under subdivision (h)(1), and any write-in votes cast for the candidate in the general election must not be counted.
Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 250, s 4, eff. 10/1/2019.
Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 128, s 1, eff. 4/9/2019.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-733; Acts 2001, ch. 413, §1; 2001, ch. 465, §§2 - 4; 2003 , ch. 307, § 4; 2005, ch. 302, §1; 2007 , ch. 125, §6; 2008 , ch. 928, §15; 2009 , ch. 218, § 6.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-15-207 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 15 / Section 2-15-207
Elector voting
Status: in_force

(a) At the time designated for elector voting and after all vacant positions have been filled under § 2-15-206 , the secretary of state, or the secretary of state's designee in the case of an emergency, shall provide each elector with a presidential and a vice-presidential ballot. The elector shall mark the elector's presidential and vice-presidential ballots with the elector's votes for the offices of president and vice president, respectively, along with the elector's signature and the elector's legibly printed name. (b) Except as otherwise provided by this state's law, other than this part, each elector shall present both completed ballots to the secretary of state, or the secretary of state's designee in the case of an emergency, who shall examine the ballots and accept as cast all ballots of electors whose votes are consistent with their pledges executed under § 2-15-204 or § 2-15-206(c) . Except as otherwise provided by this state's law, other than this part, the secretary of state, or the secretary of state's designee in the case of an emergency, shall not accept and shall not count either an elector's presidential or vice-presidential ballot if the elector has not marked both ballots or has marked a ballot in violation of the elector's pledge. (c) An elector who refuses to present a ballot, presents an unmarked ballot, or presents a ballot marked in violation of the elector's pledge executed under § 2-15-204 or § 2-15-206(c) vacates the office of elector, creating a vacant position to be filled under § 2-15-206 . (d) The secretary of state, or the secretary of state's designee in the case of an emergency, shall distribute ballots to and collect ballots from a substitute elector and repeat the process under this section of examining ballots, declaring and filling vacant positions as required, and recording appropriately completed ballots from the substituted electors, until all of this state's electoral votes have been cast and recorded. Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 787,s 1, eff. 4/23/2024.
(a) At the time designated for elector voting and after all vacant positions have been filled under § 2-15-206 , the secretary of state, or the secretary of state's designee in the case of an emergency, shall provide each elector with a presidential and a vice-presidential ballot. The elector shall mark the elector's presidential and vice-presidential ballots with the elector's votes for the offices of president and vice president, respectively, along with the elector's signature and the elector's legibly printed name.
(b) Except as otherwise provided by this state's law, other than this part, each elector shall present both completed ballots to the secretary of state, or the secretary of state's designee in the case of an emergency, who shall examine the ballots and accept as cast all ballots of electors whose votes are consistent with their pledges executed under § 2-15-204 or § 2-15-206(c) . Except as otherwise provided by this state's law, other than this part, the secretary of state, or the secretary of state's designee in the case of an emergency, shall not accept and shall not count either an elector's presidential or vice-presidential ballot if the elector has not marked both ballots or has marked a ballot in violation of the elector's pledge.
(c) An elector who refuses to present a ballot, presents an unmarked ballot, or presents a ballot marked in violation of the elector's pledge executed under § 2-15-204 or § 2-15-206(c) vacates the office of elector, creating a vacant position to be filled under § 2-15-206 .
(d) The secretary of state, or the secretary of state's designee in the case of an emergency, shall distribute ballots to and collect ballots from a substitute elector and repeat the process under this section of examining ballots, declaring and filling vacant positions as required, and recording appropriately completed ballots from the substituted electors, until all of this state's electoral votes have been cast and recorded.
Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 787,s 1, eff. 4/23/2024.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-19-203 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 19 / Section 2-19-203
Soliciting contributions for political purposes
Status: in_force

(a) It is unlawful for any public officer or employee knowingly to solicit directly or indirectly any contribution of money, thing of value, facilities or services of any person who has received contracts, compensation, employment, loans, grants or benefits, or any person whose organization, agency or firm has received such benefits financed by public funds, state, federal or local, for political purposes or campaign expense. (b) (1) As used in this subsection (b), unless the context otherwise requires, "contribution" means any advance, conveyance, deposit, distribution, transfer of funds, loan, loan guaranty, payment, gift, or subscription, of money or thing of value, including, but not limited to, use of a facility or provision of personal services, for use on behalf of any candidate for political office, or for any political purpose or campaign expense. (2) It is unlawful knowingly to solicit, accept, or collect, directly or indirectly, any contribution from a public officer or employee if the solicitor or the solicitor's principal is, directly or indirectly, in a supervisory capacity over such officer or employee or is otherwise able to control the retention, promotion, demotion, or terms or conditions of employment of such officer or employee. (3) This subsection (b) shall not be construed to prevent voluntary contributions from political action committees and associations of public officers and/or employees. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; 1979, ch. 280, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1938; Acts 2006 (1st Ex. Sess.), ch. 1, § 5.
(a) It is unlawful for any public officer or employee knowingly to solicit directly or indirectly any contribution of money, thing of value, facilities or services of any person who has received contracts, compensation, employment, loans, grants or benefits, or any person whose organization, agency or firm has received such benefits financed by public funds, state, federal or local, for political purposes or campaign expense.
(b) (1) As used in this subsection (b), unless the context otherwise requires, "contribution" means any advance, conveyance, deposit, distribution, transfer of funds, loan, loan guaranty, payment, gift, or subscription, of money or thing of value, including, but not limited to, use of a facility or provision of personal services, for use on behalf of any candidate for political office, or for any political purpose or campaign expense. (2) It is unlawful knowingly to solicit, accept, or collect, directly or indirectly, any contribution from a public officer or employee if the solicitor or the solicitor's principal is, directly or indirectly, in a supervisory capacity over such officer or employee or is otherwise able to control the retention, promotion, demotion, or terms or conditions of employment of such officer or employee. (3) This subsection (b) shall not be construed to prevent voluntary contributions from political action committees and associations of public officers and/or employees.
(1) As used in this subsection (b), unless the context otherwise requires, "contribution" means any advance, conveyance, deposit, distribution, transfer of funds, loan, loan guaranty, payment, gift, or subscription, of money or thing of value, including, but not limited to, use of a facility or provision of personal services, for use on behalf of any candidate for political office, or for any political purpose or campaign expense.
(2) It is unlawful knowingly to solicit, accept, or collect, directly or indirectly, any contribution from a public officer or employee if the solicitor or the solicitor's principal is, directly or indirectly, in a supervisory capacity over such officer or employee or is otherwise able to control the retention, promotion, demotion, or terms or conditions of employment of such officer or employee.
(3) This subsection (b) shall not be construed to prevent voluntary contributions from political action committees and associations of public officers and/or employees.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; 1979, ch. 280, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1938; Acts 2006 (1st Ex. Sess.), ch. 1, § 5.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-6-102 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 6 / Section 2-6-102
Early voting applications - Ballots - Time for voting
Status: in_force

(a) (1) A voter who desires to vote early shall go to the county election commission office or another polling place appropriately designated by the county election commission within the posted hours not more than twenty (20) days nor less than five (5) days before the day of the election. A voter desiring to vote in the early voting period shall sign an application for a ballot. (2) The state coordinator shall supply or approve the form of the application for a ballot. (b) (1) Except as provided in subdivision (b)(2), in the case of a regular or special general election not held in conjunction with the regular August or November general elections, or held in conjunction with the May primary called pursuant to § 2-13-203 or the presidential preference primary, if there is no opposition for any of the offices involved, including any write-in candidate that has filed the appropriate notice pursuant to § 2-7-133(h) , there shall not be an early voting period. In the case of a May primary called pursuant to § 2-13-203 or a special primary for state or federal offices, if there is no opposition on either primary ballot for any of the offices involved, including any write-in candidate that has filed the appropriate notice pursuant to § 2-8-113(c) , there shall not be an early voting period. (2) Subdivision (b)(1) shall not apply to municipal elections held in the largest municipality located in a county having a metropolitan form of government which has a population in excess of five hundred thousand (500,000), according to the 2000 federal census or any subsequent federal census. (c) Notwithstanding subdivision (a)(1), when a presidential preference primary is held or an election is held at the same time as a presidential preference primary, a voter who desires to vote early for such elections shall go to the county election commission office within the posted hours not more than twenty (20) days nor less than seven (7) days before the day of the election. This subsection (c) shall not apply to voting pursuant to § 2-6-601 . Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 842, Secs.s 3, s 4, s 5 eff. 4/26/2018. Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 650, s 1, eff. 7/1/2016. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-609; Acts 1982, ch. 665, § 2; 1991, ch. 69, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-6-109 ; Acts 1994, ch. 859, § 2; 2011 , ch. 115, § 1; 2011 , ch. 381, § 1; 2012, ch. 1101, § 5.
(a) (1) A voter who desires to vote early shall go to the county election commission office or another polling place appropriately designated by the county election commission within the posted hours not more than twenty (20) days nor less than five (5) days before the day of the election. A voter desiring to vote in the early voting period shall sign an application for a ballot. (2) The state coordinator shall supply or approve the form of the application for a ballot.
(1) A voter who desires to vote early shall go to the county election commission office or another polling place appropriately designated by the county election commission within the posted hours not more than twenty (20) days nor less than five (5) days before the day of the election. A voter desiring to vote in the early voting period shall sign an application for a ballot.
(2) The state coordinator shall supply or approve the form of the application for a ballot.
(b) (1) Except as provided in subdivision (b)(2), in the case of a regular or special general election not held in conjunction with the regular August or November general elections, or held in conjunction with the May primary called pursuant to § 2-13-203 or the presidential preference primary, if there is no opposition for any of the offices involved, including any write-in candidate that has filed the appropriate notice pursuant to § 2-7-133(h) , there shall not be an early voting period. In the case of a May primary called pursuant to § 2-13-203 or a special primary for state or federal offices, if there is no opposition on either primary ballot for any of the offices involved, including any write-in candidate that has filed the appropriate notice pursuant to § 2-8-113(c) , there shall not be an early voting period. (2) Subdivision (b)(1) shall not apply to municipal elections held in the largest municipality located in a county having a metropolitan form of government which has a population in excess of five hundred thousand (500,000), according to the 2000 federal census or any subsequent federal census.
(1) Except as provided in subdivision (b)(2), in the case of a regular or special general election not held in conjunction with the regular August or November general elections, or held in conjunction with the May primary called pursuant to § 2-13-203 or the presidential preference primary, if there is no opposition for any of the offices involved, including any write-in candidate that has filed the appropriate notice pursuant to § 2-7-133(h) , there shall not be an early voting period. In the case of a May primary called pursuant to § 2-13-203 or a special primary for state or federal offices, if there is no opposition on either primary ballot for any of the offices involved, including any write-in candidate that has filed the appropriate notice pursuant to § 2-8-113(c) , there shall not be an early voting period.
(2) Subdivision (b)(1) shall not apply to municipal elections held in the largest municipality located in a county having a metropolitan form of government which has a population in excess of five hundred thousand (500,000), according to the 2000 federal census or any subsequent federal census.
(c) Notwithstanding subdivision (a)(1), when a presidential preference primary is held or an election is held at the same time as a presidential preference primary, a voter who desires to vote early for such elections shall go to the county election commission office within the posted hours not more than twenty (20) days nor less than seven (7) days before the day of the election. This subsection (c) shall not apply to voting pursuant to § 2-6-601 .
Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 842, Secs.s 3, s 4, s 5 eff. 4/26/2018.
Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 650, s 1, eff. 7/1/2016.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-609; Acts 1982, ch. 665, § 2; 1991, ch. 69, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-6-109 ; Acts 1994, ch. 859, § 2; 2011 , ch. 115, § 1; 2011 , ch. 381, § 1; 2012, ch. 1101, § 5.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-6-113 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 6 / Section 2-6-113
Designation of satellite location outside boundaries of one of counties where municipality lies in two or more counties
Status: in_force

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) satellite location for early voting outside the boundaries of one (1) of the respective counties; provided, that the location for early voting is within the limits of the municipality and within five hundred feet (500') of the county boundary line. Added by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 697,s 2, eff. 4/15/2014.
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) satellite location for early voting outside the boundaries of one (1) of the respective counties; provided, that the location for early voting is within the limits of the municipality and within five hundred feet (500') of the county boundary line.
Added by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 697,s 2, eff. 4/15/2014.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-6-302 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 6 / Section 2-6-302
Central absentee ballot counting board
Status: in_force

(a) (1) The county election commission shall appoint registered voters of the county to constitute a central absentee ballot counting board to count the ballots cast under this chapter. (2) The board shall consist of one (1) officer of elections and three (3) judges appointed subject to § 2-4-104 . To count the ballots properly and with reasonable speed the commission may, if necessary, appoint additional judges subject to § 2-4-105 . (3) The board shall be assisted by the administrator of elections or other personnel of the county election commission. (4) The officer and judges shall be compensated at the same rate as other election officials. (5) The counting board shall be located at a location designated by the county election commission. Notice of the location shall be published in conjunction with the notice of election required by § 2-12-111(c) and shall not be changed except in the event of an emergency. (b) If the county election commission determines that there are fewer than one hundred (100) absentee ballots to be counted, the county election commission may act as the central absentee ballot counting board without additional compensation. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-616; Acts 1992, ch. 895, § 2; T.C.A., § 2-6-116; Acts 1994, ch. 859, § 2; 2003, ch. 352, § 7; 2008, ch. 928, § 12.
(a) (1) The county election commission shall appoint registered voters of the county to constitute a central absentee ballot counting board to count the ballots cast under this chapter. (2) The board shall consist of one (1) officer of elections and three (3) judges appointed subject to § 2-4-104 . To count the ballots properly and with reasonable speed the commission may, if necessary, appoint additional judges subject to § 2-4-105 . (3) The board shall be assisted by the administrator of elections or other personnel of the county election commission. (4) The officer and judges shall be compensated at the same rate as other election officials. (5) The counting board shall be located at a location designated by the county election commission. Notice of the location shall be published in conjunction with the notice of election required by § 2-12-111(c) and shall not be changed except in the event of an emergency.
(1) The county election commission shall appoint registered voters of the county to constitute a central absentee ballot counting board to count the ballots cast under this chapter.
(2) The board shall consist of one (1) officer of elections and three (3) judges appointed subject to § 2-4-104 . To count the ballots properly and with reasonable speed the commission may, if necessary, appoint additional judges subject to § 2-4-105 .
(3) The board shall be assisted by the administrator of elections or other personnel of the county election commission.
(4) The officer and judges shall be compensated at the same rate as other election officials.
(5) The counting board shall be located at a location designated by the county election commission. Notice of the location shall be published in conjunction with the notice of election required by § 2-12-111(c) and shall not be changed except in the event of an emergency.
(b) If the county election commission determines that there are fewer than one hundred (100) absentee ballots to be counted, the county election commission may act as the central absentee ballot counting board without additional compensation.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-616; Acts 1992, ch. 895, § 2; T.C.A., § 2-6-116; Acts 1994, ch. 859, § 2; 2003, ch. 352, § 7; 2008, ch. 928, § 12.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-1-114 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 1 / Section 2-1-114
Requisites for political parties
Status: in_force

No political party may have nominees on a ballot or exercise any of the rights of political parties under this title until its officers have filed on its behalf with the secretary of state and with the coordinator of elections: (1) An affidavit under oath that it does not advocate the overthrow of local, state or national government by force or violence and that it is not affiliated with any organization which does advocate such a policy; and (2) A copy of the rules under which the party and its subdivisions operate. Copies of amendments or additions to the rules shall be filed with the secretary of state and with the coordinator of elections within thirty (30) days after they are adopted and shall be of no effect until ten (10) days after they are filed. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-114.
No political party may have nominees on a ballot or exercise any of the rights of political parties under this title until its officers have filed on its behalf with the secretary of state and with the coordinator of elections:
(1) An affidavit under oath that it does not advocate the overthrow of local, state or national government by force or violence and that it is not affiliated with any organization which does advocate such a policy; and
(2) A copy of the rules under which the party and its subdivisions operate. Copies of amendments or additions to the rules shall be filed with the secretary of state and with the coordinator of elections within thirty (30) days after they are adopted and shall be of no effect until ten (10) days after they are filed.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-114.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-12-201 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 12 / Section 2-12-201
Employment of election administrators and clerical assistants
Status: in_force

The commission shall appoint an administrator of elections who shall be the chief administrative officer of the commission and who shall be responsible for the daily operations of the office and the execution of all elections. The duties of the administrator of elections may, upon the administrator's discretion, be performed by a designee. Such duties include, but are not limited to, the following: (1) Employment of all office personnel; after July 1, 2011, administrators of elections may not appoint or hire, except in the event of and during an emergency, members of the county election commission, or spouses, parents, brothers, sisters or children, including in-laws of commission members or spouses, parents, brothers, sisters or children, including in-laws of the administrator of elections as deputies, clerical assistants, absentee voting deputies, machine technicians, poll officials or as members of the absentee counting board; (2) Preparation of the annual operating budget and presentation of such budget to the election commission for approval; (3) Upon approval by the county election commission, presentation of the annual budget to the county commission or other legislative body for funding; (4) Requisition and purchase of any supplies necessary for the operation of the election commission office and the conduct of all elections; (5) Maintenance of voter registration files, campaign disclosure records, and any other records required by this title; (6) Conducting of instruction class for poll workers or designation of another qualified person to conduct such class; (7) Preparation of all notices for publication required by this title; (8) Preparation and maintenance of all fiscal records necessary for the daily operation of the election commission office and all elections. This may include any requests for funding or changes in funding, if necessary, after adoption of the current fiscal budget; (9) Compilation, maintenance and dissemination of information to the public, the candidates, the voters, the press and all inquiring parties in regard to all aspects of the electoral process on all governmental levels; (10) Promotion of the electoral process through supplemental registrations, public functions, press releases and media advertising whenever possible; (11) Attendance at any required seminar and other educational seminars, as funding permits, to gain knowledge beneficial to the administration of the election commission office or to the electoral process; (12) Having knowledge of all current laws pertaining to the election process and any changes mandated by the general assembly, and apprising the election commission, office staff, candidates, the press and the public in general of this information; (13) Assistance in the planning and implementation of any plan of apportionment or reapportionment of any governmental entity involved in the electoral process; (14) The county election commissioners may not employ themselves or any of their spouses, parents, siblings, in-laws or children as administrator; (15) Preparation of a plan for placing precinct voting locations and presentation of such plan to the election commission for approval; (16) Preparation of a plan for early voting sites and presentation of such plan to the election commission for approval; and (17) Upon request, assist the: (A) City councils, as appropriate, for cities located in the county; (B) County legislative body; (C) Local board of education; and (D) Members of the general assembly representing the county, concerning redistricting in 2012, and thereafter every two-year period following each decennial census taken by the United States census bureau. Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 268,Secs.s2, s3 eff. 4/25/2013. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1209; Acts 1993, ch. 518, §§ 3, 21; 1999, ch. 197, § 12; 1999, ch. 232, § 1; 2011, ch. 109, §§ 1-3; 2011, ch. 236, § 2.
The commission shall appoint an administrator of elections who shall be the chief administrative officer of the commission and who shall be responsible for the daily operations of the office and the execution of all elections. The duties of the administrator of elections may, upon the administrator's discretion, be performed by a designee. Such duties include, but are not limited to, the following:
(1) Employment of all office personnel; after July 1, 2011, administrators of elections may not appoint or hire, except in the event of and during an emergency, members of the county election commission, or spouses, parents, brothers, sisters or children, including in-laws of commission members or spouses, parents, brothers, sisters or children, including in-laws of the administrator of elections as deputies, clerical assistants, absentee voting deputies, machine technicians, poll officials or as members of the absentee counting board;
(2) Preparation of the annual operating budget and presentation of such budget to the election commission for approval;
(3) Upon approval by the county election commission, presentation of the annual budget to the county commission or other legislative body for funding;
(4) Requisition and purchase of any supplies necessary for the operation of the election commission office and the conduct of all elections;
(5) Maintenance of voter registration files, campaign disclosure records, and any other records required by this title;
(6) Conducting of instruction class for poll workers or designation of another qualified person to conduct such class;
(7) Preparation of all notices for publication required by this title;
(8) Preparation and maintenance of all fiscal records necessary for the daily operation of the election commission office and all elections. This may include any requests for funding or changes in funding, if necessary, after adoption of the current fiscal budget;
(9) Compilation, maintenance and dissemination of information to the public, the candidates, the voters, the press and all inquiring parties in regard to all aspects of the electoral process on all governmental levels;
(10) Promotion of the electoral process through supplemental registrations, public functions, press releases and media advertising whenever possible;
(11) Attendance at any required seminar and other educational seminars, as funding permits, to gain knowledge beneficial to the administration of the election commission office or to the electoral process;
(12) Having knowledge of all current laws pertaining to the election process and any changes mandated by the general assembly, and apprising the election commission, office staff, candidates, the press and the public in general of this information;
(13) Assistance in the planning and implementation of any plan of apportionment or reapportionment of any governmental entity involved in the electoral process;
(14) The county election commissioners may not employ themselves or any of their spouses, parents, siblings, in-laws or children as administrator;
(15) Preparation of a plan for placing precinct voting locations and presentation of such plan to the election commission for approval;
(16) Preparation of a plan for early voting sites and presentation of such plan to the election commission for approval; and
(17) Upon request, assist the: (A) City councils, as appropriate, for cities located in the county; (B) County legislative body; (C) Local board of education; and (D) Members of the general assembly representing the county, concerning redistricting in 2012, and thereafter every two-year period following each decennial census taken by the United States census bureau.
(A) City councils, as appropriate, for cities located in the county;
(B) County legislative body;
(C) Local board of education; and
(D) Members of the general assembly representing the county, concerning redistricting in 2012, and thereafter every two-year period following each decennial census taken by the United States census bureau.
Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 268,Secs.s2, s3 eff. 4/25/2013.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1209; Acts 1993, ch. 518, §§ 3, 21; 1999, ch. 197, § 12; 1999, ch. 232, § 1; 2011, ch. 109, §§ 1-3; 2011, ch. 236, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-19-137 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 19 / Section 2-19-137
Violators as witnesses - Exemption from prosecution
Status: in_force

A person offending against any of the provisions of this chapter shall be a competent witness against any other person violating any provisions of this chapter, and may be compelled to attend and testify upon any trial, hearing, proceeding, or investigation in the same manner as any other person, but the testimony so given shall not be used in any prosecution or proceeding, civil or criminal, against the person so testifying, except for perjury in giving such testimony, and a person so testifying shall not thereafter be liable to indictment, prosecution, or punishment for the offense with reference to which such testimony was given, and may plead or prove the giving of the testimony accordingly in bar of such an indictment or prosecution. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1945.
A person offending against any of the provisions of this chapter shall be a competent witness against any other person violating any provisions of this chapter, and may be compelled to attend and testify upon any trial, hearing, proceeding, or investigation in the same manner as any other person, but the testimony so given shall not be used in any prosecution or proceeding, civil or criminal, against the person so testifying, except for perjury in giving such testimony, and a person so testifying shall not thereafter be liable to indictment, prosecution, or punishment for the offense with reference to which such testimony was given, and may plead or prove the giving of the testimony accordingly in bar of such an indictment or prosecution.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1945.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-17-112 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 17 / Section 2-17-112
Judgment
Status: in_force

(a) After hearing the case, the court shall give judgment either: (1) Confirming the election; (2) Declaring the election void; (3) Declaring a tie between persons who have the same number of votes if it appears that two (2) or more persons who have the same number of votes have, or would have had if the ballots intended for them and illegally rejected had been received, the highest number of votes for the office; or (4) Declaring a person duly elected if it appears that such person received or would have received the highest number of votes had the ballots intended for such person and illegally rejected been received. (b) A judgment under subdivision (a)(4) deprives the person whose election is contested of all right or claim to the office and invests the person declared by the judgment duly elected with the right to the office. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1712.
(a) After hearing the case, the court shall give judgment either: (1) Confirming the election; (2) Declaring the election void; (3) Declaring a tie between persons who have the same number of votes if it appears that two (2) or more persons who have the same number of votes have, or would have had if the ballots intended for them and illegally rejected had been received, the highest number of votes for the office; or (4) Declaring a person duly elected if it appears that such person received or would have received the highest number of votes had the ballots intended for such person and illegally rejected been received.
(1) Confirming the election;
(2) Declaring the election void;
(3) Declaring a tie between persons who have the same number of votes if it appears that two (2) or more persons who have the same number of votes have, or would have had if the ballots intended for them and illegally rejected had been received, the highest number of votes for the office; or
(4) Declaring a person duly elected if it appears that such person received or would have received the highest number of votes had the ballots intended for such person and illegally rejected been received.
(b) A judgment under subdivision (a)(4) deprives the person whose election is contested of all right or claim to the office and invests the person declared by the judgment duly elected with the right to the office.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1712.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-15-208 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 15 / Section 2-15-208
Elector replacement - Associated certificates
Status: in_force

(a) After the vote of this state's electors is completed, if the final list of electors differs from any list that the governor previously included on a certificate of ascertainment prepared and transmitted under 3 U.S.C. § 5 , the secretary of state shall immediately prepare an amended certificate of ascertainment and transmit it to the governor for the governor's signature. (b) The governor shall immediately deliver the signed amended certificate of ascertainment to the secretary of state and a signed duplicate original of the amended certificate of ascertainment to all individuals entitled to receive this state's certificate of ascertainment, indicating that the amended certificate of ascertainment is to be substituted for the certificate of ascertainment previously submitted. (c) The secretary of state shall prepare a certificate of vote. The electors on the final list shall sign the certificate. The secretary of state shall process and transmit the signed certificate with the amended certificate of ascertainment under 3 U.S.C. §§ 9 - 11 . Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 787,s 1, eff. 4/23/2024.
(a) After the vote of this state's electors is completed, if the final list of electors differs from any list that the governor previously included on a certificate of ascertainment prepared and transmitted under 3 U.S.C. § 5 , the secretary of state shall immediately prepare an amended certificate of ascertainment and transmit it to the governor for the governor's signature.
(b) The governor shall immediately deliver the signed amended certificate of ascertainment to the secretary of state and a signed duplicate original of the amended certificate of ascertainment to all individuals entitled to receive this state's certificate of ascertainment, indicating that the amended certificate of ascertainment is to be substituted for the certificate of ascertainment previously submitted.
(c) The secretary of state shall prepare a certificate of vote. The electors on the final list shall sign the certificate. The secretary of state shall process and transmit the signed certificate with the amended certificate of ascertainment under 3 U.S.C. §§ 9 - 11 .
Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 787,s 1, eff. 4/23/2024.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-19-143 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 19 / Section 2-19-143
Suffrage for persons convicted of infamous crimes
Status: in_force

The following provisions shall govern the exercise of the right of suffrage for those persons convicted of an infamous crime: (1) No person who has been convicted of an infamous crime, as defined by § 40-20-112 , in this state shall be permitted to register to vote or vote at any election unless such person has been pardoned by the governor, or the person's full rights of citizenship have otherwise been restored as prescribed by law. However, the governor may attach to any such pardon a special condition that such person shall not have the right of suffrage until a date certain in the future, or until the expiration of the pardoned sentence, whichever period of time is less; (2) No person who has been convicted in federal court of a crime or offense which would constitute an infamous crime under the laws of this state, regardless of the sentence imposed, shall be allowed to register to vote or vote at any election unless such person has been pardoned or restored to the full rights of citizenship by the president of the United States, or the person's full rights of citizenship have otherwise been restored in accordance with federal law, or the law of this state; (3) No person who has been convicted in another state of a crime or offense which would constitute an infamous crime under the laws of this state, regardless of the sentence imposed, shall be allowed to register to vote or vote at any election in this state unless such person has been pardoned or restored to the rights of citizenship by the governor or other appropriate authority of such other state, or the person's full rights of citizenship have otherwise been restored in accordance with the laws of such other state, or the law of this state; (4) The provisions of this section, relative to the forfeiture and restoration of the right of suffrage for those persons convicted of infamous crimes, shall also apply to those persons convicted of crimes prior to May 18, 1981, which are infamous crimes after May 18, 1981. Acts 1981, ch. 345, §§ 2, 8; 1983, ch. 207, § 1.
The following provisions shall govern the exercise of the right of suffrage for those persons convicted of an infamous crime:
(1) No person who has been convicted of an infamous crime, as defined by § 40-20-112 , in this state shall be permitted to register to vote or vote at any election unless such person has been pardoned by the governor, or the person's full rights of citizenship have otherwise been restored as prescribed by law. However, the governor may attach to any such pardon a special condition that such person shall not have the right of suffrage until a date certain in the future, or until the expiration of the pardoned sentence, whichever period of time is less;
(2) No person who has been convicted in federal court of a crime or offense which would constitute an infamous crime under the laws of this state, regardless of the sentence imposed, shall be allowed to register to vote or vote at any election unless such person has been pardoned or restored to the full rights of citizenship by the president of the United States, or the person's full rights of citizenship have otherwise been restored in accordance with federal law, or the law of this state;
(3) No person who has been convicted in another state of a crime or offense which would constitute an infamous crime under the laws of this state, regardless of the sentence imposed, shall be allowed to register to vote or vote at any election in this state unless such person has been pardoned or restored to the rights of citizenship by the governor or other appropriate authority of such other state, or the person's full rights of citizenship have otherwise been restored in accordance with the laws of such other state, or the law of this state;
(4) The provisions of this section, relative to the forfeiture and restoration of the right of suffrage for those persons convicted of infamous crimes, shall also apply to those persons convicted of crimes prior to May 18, 1981, which are infamous crimes after May 18, 1981.
Acts 1981, ch. 345, §§ 2, 8; 1983, ch. 207, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-10-309 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 10 / Section 2-10-309
Construction with federal law
Status: in_force

In determining issues arising in regard to this part, the registry may rely on the precedents established under the federal law. Acts 1995, ch. 531, § 1.
In determining issues arising in regard to this part, the registry may rely on the precedents established under the federal law.
Acts 1995, ch. 531, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-13-105 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 13 / Section 2-13-105
Vacancies on state executive committee
Status: in_force

Each state executive committee may, by vote of its members, temporarily fill a vacancy in its membership due to death, resignation, disqualification, change of residence, persistent absence from meetings without good cause, or violation of the oath of office until a successor is chosen at the next regular August election. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1306.
Each state executive committee may, by vote of its members, temporarily fill a vacancy in its membership due to death, resignation, disqualification, change of residence, persistent absence from meetings without good cause, or violation of the oath of office until a successor is chosen at the next regular August election.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1306.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-7-101 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 7 / Section 2-7-101
Officer of elections
Status: in_force

(a) The officer of elections is in charge of and responsible for the conduct of all the elections being held at the polling place where such officer is the officer of elections. The officer is subject to the direction of the county election commission in the performance of such duties. (b) The officer of elections shall: (1) Maintain order at the polling place; (2) Assure that voting machines and voting compartments are arranged in such a way that the secrecy of the ballot is preserved and that no voter, on entering the polling place, comes near the voting machines or ballot boxes before the voter's eligibility to vote has been determined; (3) Keep each voting compartment provided with proper supplies for marking the ballots; (4) Have persons who are waiting to vote stand in line so that no person who is waiting is standing nearer than ten feet (10') to any voting machine or ballot box; (5) Report the breakdown of any voting machine to the voting machine technician; and (6) Ensure that each other election official performs such official's duties. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-701.
(a) The officer of elections is in charge of and responsible for the conduct of all the elections being held at the polling place where such officer is the officer of elections. The officer is subject to the direction of the county election commission in the performance of such duties.
(b) The officer of elections shall: (1) Maintain order at the polling place; (2) Assure that voting machines and voting compartments are arranged in such a way that the secrecy of the ballot is preserved and that no voter, on entering the polling place, comes near the voting machines or ballot boxes before the voter's eligibility to vote has been determined; (3) Keep each voting compartment provided with proper supplies for marking the ballots; (4) Have persons who are waiting to vote stand in line so that no person who is waiting is standing nearer than ten feet (10') to any voting machine or ballot box; (5) Report the breakdown of any voting machine to the voting machine technician; and (6) Ensure that each other election official performs such official's duties.
(1) Maintain order at the polling place;
(2) Assure that voting machines and voting compartments are arranged in such a way that the secrecy of the ballot is preserved and that no voter, on entering the polling place, comes near the voting machines or ballot boxes before the voter's eligibility to vote has been determined;
(3) Keep each voting compartment provided with proper supplies for marking the ballots;
(4) Have persons who are waiting to vote stand in line so that no person who is waiting is standing nearer than ten feet (10') to any voting machine or ballot box;
(5) Report the breakdown of any voting machine to the voting machine technician; and
(6) Ensure that each other election official performs such official's duties.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-701.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-2-103 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 2 / Section 2-2-103
Effect of change of residence within thirty (30)
Status: in_force

If a registered voter moves such voter's residence from this state after the thirtieth day before an election for electors for president and vice president and for that reason does not satisfy the registration requirements of such voter's new residence for that election, the voter continues to be a registered voter but only for electors for president and vice president in that election in the voting precinct in which the voter was last registered. The voter may vote either in person or by absentee ballot. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-203.
If a registered voter moves such voter's residence from this state after the thirtieth day before an election for electors for president and vice president and for that reason does not satisfy the registration requirements of such voter's new residence for that election, the voter continues to be a registered voter but only for electors for president and vice president in that election in the voting precinct in which the voter was last registered. The voter may vote either in person or by absentee ballot.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-203.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-9-109 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 9 / Section 2-9-109
Precincts required to use voting machines - Use of paper ballots in certain municipal elections
Status: in_force

(a) Precincts having more than three hundred (300) registered voters shall be equipped by the county in which they are located with voting machines for use in all elections and smaller precincts may be so equipped. If the governing body of any county does not provide voting machines as required by the preceding sentence, the county election commission, instead of the county governing body, shall equip the precincts with voting machines in accordance with §§ 2-9-112 - 2-9-114. However, in counties having populations of not less than twelve thousand one hundred (12,100) nor more than twelve thousand two hundred (12,200), according to the federal census of 1970 or any subsequent federal census, voting machines for any precinct having fewer than one thousand (1,000) registered voters shall not be purchased without the approval of the county commission. (b) Any municipality with a population of five thousand (5,000) or less, according to the 1980 federal census or any subsequent federal census, may elect to use paper ballots instead of voting machines for municipal elections, when there is no opposition for any of the offices involved. Such decision shall be made known to the county election commission at the time the municipality directs the election commission to call its election. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; 1974, ch. 641, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-909; Acts 1982, ch. 661, § 1; 2012, ch. 1101, § 8.
(a) Precincts having more than three hundred (300) registered voters shall be equipped by the county in which they are located with voting machines for use in all elections and smaller precincts may be so equipped. If the governing body of any county does not provide voting machines as required by the preceding sentence, the county election commission, instead of the county governing body, shall equip the precincts with voting machines in accordance with §§ 2-9-112 - 2-9-114. However, in counties having populations of not less than twelve thousand one hundred (12,100) nor more than twelve thousand two hundred (12,200), according to the federal census of 1970 or any subsequent federal census, voting machines for any precinct having fewer than one thousand (1,000) registered voters shall not be purchased without the approval of the county commission.
(b) Any municipality with a population of five thousand (5,000) or less, according to the 1980 federal census or any subsequent federal census, may elect to use paper ballots instead of voting machines for municipal elections, when there is no opposition for any of the offices involved. Such decision shall be made known to the county election commission at the time the municipality directs the election commission to call its election.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; 1974, ch. 641, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-909; Acts 1982, ch. 661, § 1; 2012, ch. 1101, § 8.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-2-104 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 2 / Section 2-2-104
Persons entitled to register
Status: in_force

The following persons may register permanently under this title: (1) A person who is a qualified voter when such person applies to register; (2) A person residing in an area within this state which has been ceded to the federal government if the person is otherwise qualified to vote; and (3) A person who will be eighteen (18) years of age on or before the date of the next election after the person applies to register and who is otherwise eligible to register. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-204; Acts 1994, ch. 919, § 2.
The following persons may register permanently under this title:
(1) A person who is a qualified voter when such person applies to register;
(2) A person residing in an area within this state which has been ceded to the federal government if the person is otherwise qualified to vote; and
(3) A person who will be eighteen (18) years of age on or before the date of the next election after the person applies to register and who is otherwise eligible to register.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-204; Acts 1994, ch. 919, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-12-110 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 12 / Section 2-12-110
Administration of oaths
Status: in_force

The county election commissioners may administer oaths in the performance of their duties. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1215.
The county election commissioners may administer oaths in the performance of their duties.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1215.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-14-105 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 14 / Section 2-14-105
Publication of notice
Status: in_force

Within ten (10) days after receipt of an order to hold a special election or notice of facts requiring a special election, the county election commission shall publish, in a newspaper of general circulation in the county, a notice of the date and purpose of the election. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1405.
Within ten (10) days after receipt of an order to hold a special election or notice of facts requiring a special election, the county election commission shall publish, in a newspaper of general circulation in the county, a notice of the date and purpose of the election.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1405.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-8-116 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 8 / Section 2-8-116
Right of candidate to receive certified copies of poll lists and tally sheets
Status: in_force

Each candidate has the right to have delivered to the candidate by the state election commission or the county election commission certified copies of all poll lists and tally sheets used in the election in which the candidate ran, and a list of all voters who changed their residential address to vote under § 2-7-140 , upon demand and payment of the regular legal fees. Copies of the fail-safe affidavits or change of address forms completed by the voters may be used to comply with the request for the list of all voters who changed their residential address to vote in the election. Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 204, s 1, eff. 4/24/2023. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-816.
Each candidate has the right to have delivered to the candidate by the state election commission or the county election commission certified copies of all poll lists and tally sheets used in the election in which the candidate ran, and a list of all voters who changed their residential address to vote under § 2-7-140 , upon demand and payment of the regular legal fees. Copies of the fail-safe affidavits or change of address forms completed by the voters may be used to comply with the request for the list of all voters who changed their residential address to vote in the election.
Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 204, s 1, eff. 4/24/2023.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-816.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-10-101 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 10 / Section 2-10-101
Short title - Application - Administration - Adoption of more stringent requirements
Status: in_force

(a) This part shall be known and may be cited as the "Campaign Financial Disclosure Act of 1980." (b) This part does not apply to any candidate for public office for which the service is part time and for which the compensation is less than one thousand dollars ($1,000) per month; provided, that this exemption shall not be applicable to any such candidate for a public office as a chief administrative officer or to any such candidate whose expenditures exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000). (c) Any charter provisions of municipalities regarding campaign financial disclosures of candidates for public office apply to candidates for public office, except to the extent that such provisions are in conflict with this part. (d) The registry of election finance shall have the jurisdiction to administer and enforce the provisions of this part concerning campaign financial disclosure. (e) Nothing in this part shall be construed as prohibiting the largest municipality located within any county having a population of not less than three hundred thirty-five thousand (335,000) nor more than three hundred thirty-six thousand (336,000), according to the 1990 federal census or any subsequent federal census, from enacting, by ordinance or charter amendment, more stringent financial disclosures of candidates for municipal local public office than those requirements imposed by this part. A municipality adopting more stringent requirements pursuant to this chapter shall compensate the county for any additional expenses incurred by the county election commission as a result of adopting more stringent requirements. Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 231,s 10, eff. 7/1/2013. Acts 1980, ch. 861, § 2; 1982, ch. 689, § 11; 1984, ch. 683, §§ 1, 7; 1989, ch. 585, § 9; 1997, ch. 558, § 23; 2000, ch. 782, § 1.
(a) This part shall be known and may be cited as the "Campaign Financial Disclosure Act of 1980."
(b) This part does not apply to any candidate for public office for which the service is part time and for which the compensation is less than one thousand dollars ($1,000) per month; provided, that this exemption shall not be applicable to any such candidate for a public office as a chief administrative officer or to any such candidate whose expenditures exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000).
(c) Any charter provisions of municipalities regarding campaign financial disclosures of candidates for public office apply to candidates for public office, except to the extent that such provisions are in conflict with this part.
(d) The registry of election finance shall have the jurisdiction to administer and enforce the provisions of this part concerning campaign financial disclosure.
(e) Nothing in this part shall be construed as prohibiting the largest municipality located within any county having a population of not less than three hundred thirty-five thousand (335,000) nor more than three hundred thirty-six thousand (336,000), according to the 1990 federal census or any subsequent federal census, from enacting, by ordinance or charter amendment, more stringent financial disclosures of candidates for municipal local public office than those requirements imposed by this part. A municipality adopting more stringent requirements pursuant to this chapter shall compensate the county for any additional expenses incurred by the county election commission as a result of adopting more stringent requirements.
Amended by 2013 Tenn. Acts, ch. 231,s 10, eff. 7/1/2013.
Acts 1980, ch. 861, § 2; 1982, ch. 689, § 11; 1984, ch. 683, §§ 1, 7; 1989, ch. 585, § 9; 1997, ch. 558, § 23; 2000, ch. 782, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-9-115 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 9 / Section 2-9-115
Use of voting machines owned by another governing body
Status: in_force

Nothing in this chapter shall prevent voting machines owned or controlled by one governing body from being used by another governing body when arrangements to do so are agreed upon by the affected governing bodies. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-915.
Nothing in this chapter shall prevent voting machines owned or controlled by one governing body from being used by another governing body when arrangements to do so are agreed upon by the affected governing bodies.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-915.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-11-115 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 11 / Section 2-11-115
Disclosure of fees received for election services - Disclosure requirements and deadlines
Status: in_force

(a) Members of the state election commission shall disclose any employment or the receipt of a fee, commission, or another form of compensation, including in-kind contributions, received for services related to elections. (b) Such disclosure must include: (1) The name and address of the person or entity for whom the commissioner is employed or providing services; (2) The amount of the compensation; (3) The dates the services were rendered; and (4) A general description of the services rendered. (c) The commissioners shall make the disclosures required by subsection (a) on a form adopted by the state election commission. (d) A commissioner shall file the disclosures for employment that began, or an agreement to provide services entered into, before the commissioner was appointed within thirty (30) days of the beginning of the commissioner's term. A commissioner shall file all other disclosures within thirty (30) days of becoming employed or entering into an agreement to provide services. The disclosures must be recorded in the minutes of the state election commission. (e) Failure to timely file disclosures constitutes cause for removal under § 2-11-113 . Added by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 389, s 3, eff. 5/11/2023.
(a) Members of the state election commission shall disclose any employment or the receipt of a fee, commission, or another form of compensation, including in-kind contributions, received for services related to elections.
(b) Such disclosure must include: (1) The name and address of the person or entity for whom the commissioner is employed or providing services; (2) The amount of the compensation; (3) The dates the services were rendered; and (4) A general description of the services rendered.
(1) The name and address of the person or entity for whom the commissioner is employed or providing services;
(2) The amount of the compensation;
(3) The dates the services were rendered; and
(4) A general description of the services rendered.
(c) The commissioners shall make the disclosures required by subsection (a) on a form adopted by the state election commission.
(d) A commissioner shall file the disclosures for employment that began, or an agreement to provide services entered into, before the commissioner was appointed within thirty (30) days of the beginning of the commissioner's term. A commissioner shall file all other disclosures within thirty (30) days of becoming employed or entering into an agreement to provide services. The disclosures must be recorded in the minutes of the state election commission.
(e) Failure to timely file disclosures constitutes cause for removal under § 2-11-113 .
Added by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 389, s 3, eff. 5/11/2023.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-7-136 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 7 / Section 2-7-136
Public announcement of results - Certification of results on demand of any candidate or watcher
Status: in_force

When the certification of the tally sheets is complete, the officer of elections shall publicly announce the results and shall, on demand of any candidate or watcher present, furnish such person a certified copy of the results. The certificate shall include the names of all candidates appearing on the ballot, the number of votes received by each and the number of votes for and against each question, including separately the total number of votes cast for each by voting machine and by paper ballot. The certificate shall be signed by the officer of elections and the judges and may be used as competent evidence in case of a contest regardless of what tribunal is hearing the contest. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-736.
When the certification of the tally sheets is complete, the officer of elections shall publicly announce the results and shall, on demand of any candidate or watcher present, furnish such person a certified copy of the results. The certificate shall include the names of all candidates appearing on the ballot, the number of votes received by each and the number of votes for and against each question, including separately the total number of votes cast for each by voting machine and by paper ballot. The certificate shall be signed by the officer of elections and the judges and may be used as competent evidence in case of a contest regardless of what tribunal is hearing the contest.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-736.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-2-205 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 2 / Section 2-2-205
Registration procedures where agency does not require applications for its services
Status: in_force

(a) To the extent that a voter registration agency is an office, public library or high school described in § 2-2-202(3) and does not require or provide applications for its services, that office, public library or high school shall: (1) Distribute or otherwise make available the voter registration-by-mail application form described in § 2-2-115 to those individuals whom the office, public library or high school serves; (2) Provide the person the same degree of assistance with regard to the completion of the registration application form as is provided by the office, public library or high school with regard to the services offered by that office, public library or high school; and (3) Accept the completed voter registration forms for transmittal to the appropriate county election commission to be processed as a voter registration-by-mail form in accordance with § 2-2-115 . (b) A completed voter registration accepted at a voter registration agency described in this section shall be transmitted to the appropriate county election commission office not later than ten (10) days after the date of acceptance; provided, that if the document is accepted within five (5) days before the last day for registration to vote in an election, the application shall be transmitted to the appropriate county election commission office not later than five (5) days after the date of acceptance. Acts 1994, ch. 947, § 6; 1997, ch. 501, § 2.
(a) To the extent that a voter registration agency is an office, public library or high school described in § 2-2-202(3) and does not require or provide applications for its services, that office, public library or high school shall: (1) Distribute or otherwise make available the voter registration-by-mail application form described in § 2-2-115 to those individuals whom the office, public library or high school serves; (2) Provide the person the same degree of assistance with regard to the completion of the registration application form as is provided by the office, public library or high school with regard to the services offered by that office, public library or high school; and (3) Accept the completed voter registration forms for transmittal to the appropriate county election commission to be processed as a voter registration-by-mail form in accordance with § 2-2-115 .
(1) Distribute or otherwise make available the voter registration-by-mail application form described in § 2-2-115 to those individuals whom the office, public library or high school serves;
(2) Provide the person the same degree of assistance with regard to the completion of the registration application form as is provided by the office, public library or high school with regard to the services offered by that office, public library or high school; and
(3) Accept the completed voter registration forms for transmittal to the appropriate county election commission to be processed as a voter registration-by-mail form in accordance with § 2-2-115 .
(b) A completed voter registration accepted at a voter registration agency described in this section shall be transmitted to the appropriate county election commission office not later than ten (10) days after the date of acceptance; provided, that if the document is accepted within five (5) days before the last day for registration to vote in an election, the application shall be transmitted to the appropriate county election commission office not later than five (5) days after the date of acceptance.
Acts 1994, ch. 947, § 6; 1997, ch. 501, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-6-206 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 6 / Section 2-6-206
Absentee ballots for person participating in address confidentiality program
Status: in_force

The following shall apply to registered voters who are participants in the address confidentiality program in accordance with title 40, chapter 38, part 6: (1) Following certification as a program participant by the secretary of state, and without any further request, the administrator of elections shall send to each person participating in the address confidentiality program an application for an absentee ballot for each election in which the person may vote. A voter may submit an application to vote by mail, facsimile transmission, or email with an attached document that includes a scanned signature; (2) The application shall contain the following information: (A) The voter's address confidentiality program participant identification number; (B) The election the voter wishes to participate in; (C) A statement confirming that the voter's residence address on file with the address confidentiality program has not changed; and (D) The voter's signature; and (3) Without any further request, the administrator of elections shall compare the signature of the voter with the signature on the voter's registration record in whatever form. If the signatures are the same and if the required information is provided, the administrator shall mail the voter a ballot to the address the voter requested. If no address is requested then the absentee ballot shall be mailed to the substitute address listed with the secretary of state. If the signatures are not the same, the administrator shall reject the application or request. If the required information is not provided, the administrator shall send the voter by mail or facsimile an application for a ballot. Acts 2018, ch. 1004, § 3.
The following shall apply to registered voters who are participants in the address confidentiality program in accordance with title 40, chapter 38, part 6:
(1) Following certification as a program participant by the secretary of state, and without any further request, the administrator of elections shall send to each person participating in the address confidentiality program an application for an absentee ballot for each election in which the person may vote. A voter may submit an application to vote by mail, facsimile transmission, or email with an attached document that includes a scanned signature;
(2) The application shall contain the following information: (A) The voter's address confidentiality program participant identification number; (B) The election the voter wishes to participate in; (C) A statement confirming that the voter's residence address on file with the address confidentiality program has not changed; and (D) The voter's signature; and
(A) The voter's address confidentiality program participant identification number;
(B) The election the voter wishes to participate in;
(C) A statement confirming that the voter's residence address on file with the address confidentiality program has not changed; and
(D) The voter's signature; and
(3) Without any further request, the administrator of elections shall compare the signature of the voter with the signature on the voter's registration record in whatever form. If the signatures are the same and if the required information is provided, the administrator shall mail the voter a ballot to the address the voter requested. If no address is requested then the absentee ballot shall be mailed to the substitute address listed with the secretary of state. If the signatures are not the same, the administrator shall reject the application or request. If the required information is not provided, the administrator shall send the voter by mail or facsimile an application for a ballot.
Acts 2018, ch. 1004, § 3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-2-131 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 2 / Section 2-2-131
Replacement registration cards - Correction of errors in registration records
Status: in_force

(a) If a voter states in writing that the voter has lost the registration card, the commission shall replace the registration card. A card issued to replace another shall be marked "Replacement Registration Card." The permanent registration records shall show that the replacement was issued. (b) The commission may correct any errors in registration records which are apparent on the face of the records or which are called to its attention by the voter whose record is incorrect. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-231; Acts 1994, ch. 919, § 26.
(a) If a voter states in writing that the voter has lost the registration card, the commission shall replace the registration card. A card issued to replace another shall be marked "Replacement Registration Card." The permanent registration records shall show that the replacement was issued.
(b) The commission may correct any errors in registration records which are apparent on the face of the records or which are called to its attention by the voter whose record is incorrect.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-231; Acts 1994, ch. 919, § 26.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-3-203 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 3 / Section 2-3-203
General assembly members, congressional representatives, presidential electors, and governor - Time for election
Status: in_force

Elections for the following offices shall be held at the regular November election when the election immediately precedes the commencement of a full term: (1) Representative in the general assembly; (2) Representative in the United States congress; (3) Senator in the general assembly; (4) Senator in the United States senate; (5) Governor; and (6) Electors for president and vice president. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-309; Acts 1995, ch. 305, § 55.
Elections for the following offices shall be held at the regular November election when the election immediately precedes the commencement of a full term:
(1) Representative in the general assembly;
(2) Representative in the United States congress;
(3) Senator in the general assembly;
(4) Senator in the United States senate;
(5) Governor; and
(6) Electors for president and vice president.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-309; Acts 1995, ch. 305, § 55.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-10-119 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 10 / Section 2-10-119
[Repealed]
Status: repealed

Repealed by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 108,s 8, eff. 4/4/2023. Acts 2000, ch. 612, § 1.
Repealed by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 108,s 8, eff. 4/4/2023.
Acts 2000, ch. 612, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-19-122 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 19 / Section 2-19-122
Demanding candidate make promise
Status: in_force

It is unlawful for any person to demand that any candidate for nomination or office shall promise or agree in advance to support any particular individual, policy or measure, in consideration of the vote or support, financial or moral, of such person, in any election, primary or nominating convention. A violation of this section shall be punished as provided in § 2-19-123 . Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1922.
It is unlawful for any person to demand that any candidate for nomination or office shall promise or agree in advance to support any particular individual, policy or measure, in consideration of the vote or support, financial or moral, of such person, in any election, primary or nominating convention. A violation of this section shall be punished as provided in § 2-19-123 .
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1922.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-19-208 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 19 / Section 2-19-208
Penalty for violations by public officers and employees
Status: in_force

A violation of this part is a Class C misdemeanor. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1943; Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 113.
A violation of this part is a Class C misdemeanor.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1943; Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 113.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-19-124 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 19 / Section 2-19-124
Exceptions to Section 2-19-121 or Section 2-19-122
Status: in_force

Nothing in § 2-19-121 or § 2-19-122 shall render illegal any expenditures made by any candidate, or by others, for or on the candidate's behalf, to employ clerks or stenographers in the candidate's campaign, for the printing and advertising therein, or the seeking of suitable halls for public speaking or meetings, or suitable headquarters, stationery and stamps, or the actual traveling expenses of such candidate or the candidate's supporters. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1924.
Nothing in § 2-19-121 or § 2-19-122 shall render illegal any expenditures made by any candidate, or by others, for or on the candidate's behalf, to employ clerks or stenographers in the candidate's campaign, for the printing and advertising therein, or the seeking of suitable halls for public speaking or meetings, or suitable headquarters, stationery and stamps, or the actual traveling expenses of such candidate or the candidate's supporters.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1924.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-6-203 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 6 / Section 2-6-203
Filling out application to vote by mail and voter's affidavit
Status: in_force

The voter may have anyone the voter chooses write the voter's request for an absentee ballot or for an absentee voting by mail application or write out the voter's absentee voting by mail application except for the voter's signature or mark. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., §§ 2-613, 2-6-113; Acts 1994, ch. 859, § 2.
The voter may have anyone the voter chooses write the voter's request for an absentee ballot or for an absentee voting by mail application or write out the voter's absentee voting by mail application except for the voter's signature or mark.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., §§ 2-613, 2-6-113; Acts 1994, ch. 859, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-7-128 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 7 / Section 2-7-128
Duties after closing the polls
Status: in_force

The registrars shall, immediately after the polls close, cross (X) out the remaining space on incomplete poll list sheets so that no additional names can be written in and shall number those sheets serially and place them in the poll book binders. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-728.
The registrars shall, immediately after the polls close, cross (X) out the remaining space on incomplete poll list sheets so that no additional names can be written in and shall number those sheets serially and place them in the poll book binders.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-728.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-17-107 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 17 / Section 2-17-107
Testimony and orders
Status: in_force

The testimony in an election contest may be taken orally or by deposition, upon such notice as the court may prescribe, and the court may make all necessary orders with respect to any matter required in the contest. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1707.
The testimony in an election contest may be taken orally or by deposition, upon such notice as the court may prescribe, and the court may make all necessary orders with respect to any matter required in the contest.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1707.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-15-103 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 15 / Section 2-15-103
Duties of governor
Status: in_force

The governor shall perform the duties with respect to the electors required of the governor by the laws of the United States. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1503.
The governor shall perform the duties with respect to the electors required of the governor by the laws of the United States.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1503.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-10-123 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 10 / Section 2-10-123
Violations at state level - Penalties
Status: in_force

(a) It is an offense for any member of the general assembly, member-elect of the general assembly, governor, member of the governor's cabinet, member of the governor's staff, secretary of state, treasurer, or comptroller of the treasury to knowingly receive a fee, commission or any other form of compensation for consulting services from any person or entity, other than compensation paid by the state, a county or municipality. (b) It is an offense for any person or other entity, other than the state, a county or a municipality, to pay a fee, commission or any other form of compensation for consulting services to a person such person or entity knows to be a member of the general assembly, member-elect of the general assembly, governor, member of the governor's cabinet, member of the governor's staff, secretary of state, treasurer, or comptroller of the treasury. (c) (1) (A) If conduct giving rise to a violation of this section would also constitute the offense of bribery prohibited by § 39-16-102 , then such violation is a Class C felony. Any person convicted of such offense shall forever afterwards be disqualified from holding any office under the laws or constitution of this state. (B) Nothing contained within this section shall be construed to prohibit prosecution and conviction for the Class C felony offense of bribery of a public servant, set forth in § 39-16-102 ; nor shall it be construed to prohibit prosecution and conviction for any other applicable criminal offense. (2) Any other violation of this section is a Class A misdemeanor. Any person convicted of such offense shall forever afterwards be disqualified from holding any office under the laws or constitution of this state. Amended by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1087, s 22, eff. 7/1/2022. Acts 2005, ch. 102, § 1.
(a) It is an offense for any member of the general assembly, member-elect of the general assembly, governor, member of the governor's cabinet, member of the governor's staff, secretary of state, treasurer, or comptroller of the treasury to knowingly receive a fee, commission or any other form of compensation for consulting services from any person or entity, other than compensation paid by the state, a county or municipality.
(b) It is an offense for any person or other entity, other than the state, a county or a municipality, to pay a fee, commission or any other form of compensation for consulting services to a person such person or entity knows to be a member of the general assembly, member-elect of the general assembly, governor, member of the governor's cabinet, member of the governor's staff, secretary of state, treasurer, or comptroller of the treasury.
(c) (1) (A) If conduct giving rise to a violation of this section would also constitute the offense of bribery prohibited by § 39-16-102 , then such violation is a Class C felony. Any person convicted of such offense shall forever afterwards be disqualified from holding any office under the laws or constitution of this state. (B) Nothing contained within this section shall be construed to prohibit prosecution and conviction for the Class C felony offense of bribery of a public servant, set forth in § 39-16-102 ; nor shall it be construed to prohibit prosecution and conviction for any other applicable criminal offense. (2) Any other violation of this section is a Class A misdemeanor. Any person convicted of such offense shall forever afterwards be disqualified from holding any office under the laws or constitution of this state.
(1) (A) If conduct giving rise to a violation of this section would also constitute the offense of bribery prohibited by § 39-16-102 , then such violation is a Class C felony. Any person convicted of such offense shall forever afterwards be disqualified from holding any office under the laws or constitution of this state. (B) Nothing contained within this section shall be construed to prohibit prosecution and conviction for the Class C felony offense of bribery of a public servant, set forth in § 39-16-102 ; nor shall it be construed to prohibit prosecution and conviction for any other applicable criminal offense.
(A) If conduct giving rise to a violation of this section would also constitute the offense of bribery prohibited by § 39-16-102 , then such violation is a Class C felony. Any person convicted of such offense shall forever afterwards be disqualified from holding any office under the laws or constitution of this state.
(B) Nothing contained within this section shall be construed to prohibit prosecution and conviction for the Class C felony offense of bribery of a public servant, set forth in § 39-16-102 ; nor shall it be construed to prohibit prosecution and conviction for any other applicable criminal offense.
(2) Any other violation of this section is a Class A misdemeanor. Any person convicted of such offense shall forever afterwards be disqualified from holding any office under the laws or constitution of this state.
Amended by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 1087, s 22, eff. 7/1/2022.
Acts 2005, ch. 102, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-3-103 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 3 / Section 2-3-103
Maximum size of precincts
Status: in_force

Precincts where voting machines are used shall, whenever practicable, in the judgment of the county election commission, after taking into consideration all facts and circumstances, be limited in size to a maximum of six thousand (6,000) registered voters. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; 1974, ch. 413, § 1; 1974, ch. 676, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-303; Acts 1991, ch. 249, § 1; 1997, ch. 558, § 7; 2012, ch. 1101, § 2.
Precincts where voting machines are used shall, whenever practicable, in the judgment of the county election commission, after taking into consideration all facts and circumstances, be limited in size to a maximum of six thousand (6,000) registered voters.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; 1974, ch. 413, § 1; 1974, ch. 676, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-303; Acts 1991, ch. 249, § 1; 1997, ch. 558, § 7; 2012, ch. 1101, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-4-108 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 4 / Section 2-4-108
Instruction of election officials - Compensation
Status: in_force

(a) The coordinator of elections shall create minimum standards for educating election officials throughout the state for use by the county election commissions. The standards shall include instructing election officials as to their duties during an election and educating the officials about the election laws of this state. (b) After the appointment of the election officials pursuant to § 2-4-102 , there shall be held in each county, under the direction of the county election commission, at least one (1) instructional meeting for the purpose of training election officials as to their duties during an election. The meeting shall at a minimum meet the standards created pursuant to subsection (a). (c) The officials for each polling place shall attend the instructional meeting and shall receive, for the time spent in receiving such instructions and qualifying to serve at an election by taking the oath, the sum of ten dollars ($10.00), which is to be paid only if they serve in the election. The compensation may be increased by resolution of the county legislative body. (d) Notwithstanding any other provisions of this section, the county election commission may limit attendance at instructional meetings to only those persons who are inexperienced or otherwise need the training. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-408; Acts 1980, ch. 915, § 1; 1981, ch. 338, § 1; 1981, ch. 385, § 4; 1988, ch. 683, §1; 2008 , ch. 1099, § 1; 2012, ch. 1101, § 3.
(a) The coordinator of elections shall create minimum standards for educating election officials throughout the state for use by the county election commissions. The standards shall include instructing election officials as to their duties during an election and educating the officials about the election laws of this state.
(b) After the appointment of the election officials pursuant to § 2-4-102 , there shall be held in each county, under the direction of the county election commission, at least one (1) instructional meeting for the purpose of training election officials as to their duties during an election. The meeting shall at a minimum meet the standards created pursuant to subsection (a).
(c) The officials for each polling place shall attend the instructional meeting and shall receive, for the time spent in receiving such instructions and qualifying to serve at an election by taking the oath, the sum of ten dollars ($10.00), which is to be paid only if they serve in the election. The compensation may be increased by resolution of the county legislative body.
(d) Notwithstanding any other provisions of this section, the county election commission may limit attendance at instructional meetings to only those persons who are inexperienced or otherwise need the training.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-408; Acts 1980, ch. 915, § 1; 1981, ch. 338, § 1; 1981, ch. 385, § 4; 1988, ch. 683, §1; 2008 , ch. 1099, § 1; 2012, ch. 1101, § 3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-15-101 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 15 / Section 2-15-101
Selection of presidential electors
Status: in_force

At the regular November election immediately preceding the time fixed by the law of the United States for the choice of president and vice president, as many electors of president and vice president as this state may be entitled to shall be elected. Each registered voter in this state may vote for the whole number of electors. The persons, up to the number required to be chosen, having the highest number of votes shall be declared to be duly chosen electors. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1501.
At the regular November election immediately preceding the time fixed by the law of the United States for the choice of president and vice president, as many electors of president and vice president as this state may be entitled to shall be elected. Each registered voter in this state may vote for the whole number of electors. The persons, up to the number required to be chosen, having the highest number of votes shall be declared to be duly chosen electors.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1501.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-15-210 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 15 / Section 2-15-210
Controlling provisions when conflict exists
Status: in_force

If a conflict exists between this part and another law, then this part controls. Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 787,s 1, eff. 4/23/2024.
If a conflict exists between this part and another law, then this part controls.
Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 787,s 1, eff. 4/23/2024.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-1-120 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 1 / Section 2-1-120
Consultation prior to entering into consent decrees to change state election laws or rules
Status: in_force

(a) As used in this section: (1) "County election official" means the county election commission, administrator of elections, or county election commission staff; and (2) "State official" means the governor, the secretary of state, the coordinator of elections, a member of the state election commission, or other official of a state entity authorized to act under this title. (b) State officials and county election officials shall consult with the speaker of the senate and the speaker of the house of representatives prior to entering into consent decrees to change state election laws or rules. (c) The general assembly has legal standing to file an action against state officials and county election officials for violating this section. Added by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 947,s 1, eff. 7/1/2022.
(a) As used in this section: (1) "County election official" means the county election commission, administrator of elections, or county election commission staff; and (2) "State official" means the governor, the secretary of state, the coordinator of elections, a member of the state election commission, or other official of a state entity authorized to act under this title.
(1) "County election official" means the county election commission, administrator of elections, or county election commission staff; and
(2) "State official" means the governor, the secretary of state, the coordinator of elections, a member of the state election commission, or other official of a state entity authorized to act under this title.
(b) State officials and county election officials shall consult with the speaker of the senate and the speaker of the house of representatives prior to entering into consent decrees to change state election laws or rules.
(c) The general assembly has legal standing to file an action against state officials and county election officials for violating this section.
Added by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 947,s 1, eff. 7/1/2022.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-9-108 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 9 / Section 2-9-108
Voting machines to remain locked
Status: in_force

Each voting machine shall remain locked against voting for five (5) days after the certification of the election and as much longer as may be necessary or advisable because of a contest over the result of the election. When another election necessitating the use of a particular voting machine is to be held within a period of thirty (30) days after an election, that voting machine may be opened after five (5) days upon the agreement of all the candidates in the earlier election whose names appeared on the ballot on that machine. A voting machine may be opened and examined upon the order of any court of competent jurisdiction at any time. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., §2-908; Acts 2010 , ch. 1137, § 2.
Each voting machine shall remain locked against voting for five (5) days after the certification of the election and as much longer as may be necessary or advisable because of a contest over the result of the election. When another election necessitating the use of a particular voting machine is to be held within a period of thirty (30) days after an election, that voting machine may be opened after five (5) days upon the agreement of all the candidates in the earlier election whose names appeared on the ballot on that machine. A voting machine may be opened and examined upon the order of any court of competent jurisdiction at any time.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., §2-908; Acts 2010 , ch. 1137, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-8-103 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 8 / Section 2-8-103
Form of returns - Sufficiency
Status: in_force

No return, poll list, or certificate made under this title may be disregarded or rejected for want of form or on account of its not being strictly in accordance with the requirements of this title if it can be clearly understood. Any such return or certificate signed by a majority of the election officials at the polling place is sufficient. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-803.
No return, poll list, or certificate made under this title may be disregarded or rejected for want of form or on account of its not being strictly in accordance with the requirements of this title if it can be clearly understood. Any such return or certificate signed by a majority of the election officials at the polling place is sufficient.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-803.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-7-138 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 7 / Section 2-7-138
Delivery of locked ballot box and supplies or equipment to county election commission
Status: in_force

The officer of elections, accompanied by either a judge or precinct registrar of another political party, shall immediately deliver the locked ballot box or boxes and remaining election supplies or equipment except the voting machines to the county election commission. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-738.
The officer of elections, accompanied by either a judge or precinct registrar of another political party, shall immediately deliver the locked ballot box or boxes and remaining election supplies or equipment except the voting machines to the county election commission.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-738.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-6-107 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 6 / Section 2-6-107
Application and supplies limited
Status: in_force

The election commission shall furnish only one (1) application for early voting or one (1) set of early voting supplies to any voter unless the voter notifies the commission that the voter has spoiled the application or notifies the commission that the voter has not received the application or voting supplies. If so, the commission shall supply the voter with a subsequent application or supplies. The commission shall note on the records that a subsequent application or supplies have been sent. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-607; Acts 1993, ch. 518, § 7; 1994, ch. 859, §§ 2, 12.
The election commission shall furnish only one (1) application for early voting or one (1) set of early voting supplies to any voter unless the voter notifies the commission that the voter has spoiled the application or notifies the commission that the voter has not received the application or voting supplies. If so, the commission shall supply the voter with a subsequent application or supplies. The commission shall note on the records that a subsequent application or supplies have been sent.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-607; Acts 1993, ch. 518, § 7; 1994, ch. 859, §§ 2, 12.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-1-108 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 1 / Section 2-1-108
Filing of required documents
Status: in_force

(a) When any document is required to be filed by a date or time prescribed by this title, it shall be received by the officer or body with which it is to be filed by the date or time prescribed. (b) The document shall be prominently marked with the time and date of filing and a receipt showing the same information shall be given to the person filing the document. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-108.
(a) When any document is required to be filed by a date or time prescribed by this title, it shall be received by the officer or body with which it is to be filed by the date or time prescribed.
(b) The document shall be prominently marked with the time and date of filing and a receipt showing the same information shall be given to the person filing the document.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-108.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-13-112 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 13 / Section 2-13-112
Vacancies on county primary board
Status: in_force

Each county primary board shall immediately notify its state primary board upon the occurrence of any vacancy in its membership. The state primary board shall appoint new members to fill any vacancies in the membership of its county primary boards due to death, resignation or other cause. The person so appointed shall hold office during the unexpired term for which the person was appointed. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1313.
Each county primary board shall immediately notify its state primary board upon the occurrence of any vacancy in its membership. The state primary board shall appoint new members to fill any vacancies in the membership of its county primary boards due to death, resignation or other cause. The person so appointed shall hold office during the unexpired term for which the person was appointed.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1313.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-8-105 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 8 / Section 2-8-105
Certification of tabulation and results
Status: in_force

After completing the comparison of the returns, the county election commission shall make and certify the official tabulation and certification of results, showing both precinct and county totals, in the following manner: (1) In triplicate for the offices of governor, members of the general assembly, presidential and vice presidential elector, members of congress, judge, chancellor, or district attorney general; (2) In triplicate for questions submitted to the people of the entire state; (3) In duplicate for any other office not listed in subdivision (1) and for questions submitted to people of a part of the state; and (4) In triplicate for all primary elections. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; 1979, ch. 306, § 10; T.C.A., § 2-805.
After completing the comparison of the returns, the county election commission shall make and certify the official tabulation and certification of results, showing both precinct and county totals, in the following manner:
(1) In triplicate for the offices of governor, members of the general assembly, presidential and vice presidential elector, members of congress, judge, chancellor, or district attorney general;
(2) In triplicate for questions submitted to the people of the entire state;
(3) In duplicate for any other office not listed in subdivision (1) and for questions submitted to people of a part of the state; and
(4) In triplicate for all primary elections.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; 1979, ch. 306, § 10; T.C.A., § 2-805.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-17-111 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 17 / Section 2-17-111
Minutes of proceedings
Status: in_force

The clerk of the court shall keep minutes of the proceedings in contested election cases as in other cases. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1711.
The clerk of the court shall keep minutes of the proceedings in contested election cases as in other cases.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1711.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-2-107 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 2 / Section 2-2-107
Precinct or municipality of registration - Change of habitation without change of residence
Status: in_force

(a) (1) A person shall be registered as a voter of the precinct in which the person is a resident, and, if provided for by municipal charter or general law, may also be registered in a municipality in which the person owns real property in order to participate in that municipality's elections. (2) Notwithstanding any provision of this title to the contrary, if a person's residence is located on real property which is located in both a municipality and in an unincorporated area in the county in which the municipality is located, then such person shall be eligible to vote in municipal elections if municipal taxes are assessed on the portion of real property located within the municipality. In a county having a metropolitan form of government, "unincorporated area," as used in this subdivision (a)(2), includes an area outside the boundaries of any of the smaller cities within the metropolitan government. (3) Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, if a municipal charter provides for property rights voting, no more than two (2) persons shall be entitled to vote based upon the ownership of an individual tract of property regardless of the number of property owners. (b) If a voter moves such voter's habitation outside the precinct where the person is a registered voter but continues to be a resident of the precinct, the county election commission shall determine the person's rights and duties on the basis of the location of the person's last residence in the precinct before the person's change of habitation. (c) In order to timely correct voter registration records, municipalities which have annexed territory or changed any district or ward boundary shall provide each county election commission affected by the change with the following: (1) Maps depicting the area; (2) A copy of the ordinance or resolution calling for the change denoting, if applicable, which wards or districts the annexed or changed area will be a part of; and (3) A copy of the census taken for the annexation, if available, with names and addresses within the annexed area. Amended by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 724,s 5, eff. 4/16/2014. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; 1978, ch. 944, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-207; Acts 1996, ch. 765, § 1; 1999, ch. 197, § 1; 2001, ch. 413, § 13; 2003, ch. 134, § 1.
(a) (1) A person shall be registered as a voter of the precinct in which the person is a resident, and, if provided for by municipal charter or general law, may also be registered in a municipality in which the person owns real property in order to participate in that municipality's elections. (2) Notwithstanding any provision of this title to the contrary, if a person's residence is located on real property which is located in both a municipality and in an unincorporated area in the county in which the municipality is located, then such person shall be eligible to vote in municipal elections if municipal taxes are assessed on the portion of real property located within the municipality. In a county having a metropolitan form of government, "unincorporated area," as used in this subdivision (a)(2), includes an area outside the boundaries of any of the smaller cities within the metropolitan government. (3) Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, if a municipal charter provides for property rights voting, no more than two (2) persons shall be entitled to vote based upon the ownership of an individual tract of property regardless of the number of property owners.
(1) A person shall be registered as a voter of the precinct in which the person is a resident, and, if provided for by municipal charter or general law, may also be registered in a municipality in which the person owns real property in order to participate in that municipality's elections.
(2) Notwithstanding any provision of this title to the contrary, if a person's residence is located on real property which is located in both a municipality and in an unincorporated area in the county in which the municipality is located, then such person shall be eligible to vote in municipal elections if municipal taxes are assessed on the portion of real property located within the municipality. In a county having a metropolitan form of government, "unincorporated area," as used in this subdivision (a)(2), includes an area outside the boundaries of any of the smaller cities within the metropolitan government.
(3) Notwithstanding any law to the contrary, if a municipal charter provides for property rights voting, no more than two (2) persons shall be entitled to vote based upon the ownership of an individual tract of property regardless of the number of property owners.
(b) If a voter moves such voter's habitation outside the precinct where the person is a registered voter but continues to be a resident of the precinct, the county election commission shall determine the person's rights and duties on the basis of the location of the person's last residence in the precinct before the person's change of habitation.
(c) In order to timely correct voter registration records, municipalities which have annexed territory or changed any district or ward boundary shall provide each county election commission affected by the change with the following: (1) Maps depicting the area; (2) A copy of the ordinance or resolution calling for the change denoting, if applicable, which wards or districts the annexed or changed area will be a part of; and (3) A copy of the census taken for the annexation, if available, with names and addresses within the annexed area.
(1) Maps depicting the area;
(2) A copy of the ordinance or resolution calling for the change denoting, if applicable, which wards or districts the annexed or changed area will be a part of; and
(3) A copy of the census taken for the annexation, if available, with names and addresses within the annexed area.
Amended by 2014 Tenn. Acts, ch. 724,s 5, eff. 4/16/2014.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; 1978, ch. 944, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-207; Acts 1996, ch. 765, § 1; 1999, ch. 197, § 1; 2001, ch. 413, § 13; 2003, ch. 134, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-10-129 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 10 / Section 2-10-129
Disclosure of fees paid to a member of the general assembly or the member's spouse for services performed outside of the state
Status: in_force

(a) (1) If any person or other entity that contracts with the state of Tennessee, pays more than a two hundred dollar ($200) fee, commission or other form of compensation, to a member of the general assembly or a member's spouse, for consulting services on contracts to which the state of Tennessee is not a party, and for which such consulting services are to be rendered outside the state of Tennessee, then such person or entity shall disclose the following to the Tennessee ethics commission: (A) The name and address of the person or entity paying the fee, commission or other form of compensation; (B) The person to whom the fee, commission or other form of compensation was paid, including the amount paid; (C) The position of the person to whom the fee, commission or other form of compensation was paid; (D) The date the services were rendered; and (E) A general description of the services rendered. (2) As used in this subsection (a), "consulting services" means services performed outside the state of Tennessee, which would be defined as "influencing legislative or administrative action", in § 3-6-301 , if such services were performed in the state of Tennessee. "Consulting services" also includes services to advise or assist a person or entity in maintaining, applying for, soliciting or entering into a contract with a state other than the state of Tennessee. (b) The disclosure shall be on a form designed by the Tennessee ethics commission, shall be made under oath, and shall contain a statement that a false statement on the report is subject to the penalties of perjury. A disclosure form shall be filed within five (5) days of entering into a contract not involving the state of Tennessee with a member of the general assembly. Such form shall be updated annually, no later than February 1, if necessary. (c) All disclosures made to the commission pursuant to this section are public records, and are open for inspection during regular business hours. (d) (1) It is a Class C misdemeanor for any person or entity to knowingly fail to file a disclosure form as required by this section. (2) It is a Class C misdemeanor for any person or entity to file a disclosure form required by this section more than thirty (30) days after the date on which the report is due. Acts 2005, ch. 476, § 3; 2006 (1st Ex. Sess.), ch. 1, § 28.
(a) (1) If any person or other entity that contracts with the state of Tennessee, pays more than a two hundred dollar ($200) fee, commission or other form of compensation, to a member of the general assembly or a member's spouse, for consulting services on contracts to which the state of Tennessee is not a party, and for which such consulting services are to be rendered outside the state of Tennessee, then such person or entity shall disclose the following to the Tennessee ethics commission: (A) The name and address of the person or entity paying the fee, commission or other form of compensation; (B) The person to whom the fee, commission or other form of compensation was paid, including the amount paid; (C) The position of the person to whom the fee, commission or other form of compensation was paid; (D) The date the services were rendered; and (E) A general description of the services rendered. (2) As used in this subsection (a), "consulting services" means services performed outside the state of Tennessee, which would be defined as "influencing legislative or administrative action", in § 3-6-301 , if such services were performed in the state of Tennessee. "Consulting services" also includes services to advise or assist a person or entity in maintaining, applying for, soliciting or entering into a contract with a state other than the state of Tennessee.
(1) If any person or other entity that contracts with the state of Tennessee, pays more than a two hundred dollar ($200) fee, commission or other form of compensation, to a member of the general assembly or a member's spouse, for consulting services on contracts to which the state of Tennessee is not a party, and for which such consulting services are to be rendered outside the state of Tennessee, then such person or entity shall disclose the following to the Tennessee ethics commission: (A) The name and address of the person or entity paying the fee, commission or other form of compensation; (B) The person to whom the fee, commission or other form of compensation was paid, including the amount paid; (C) The position of the person to whom the fee, commission or other form of compensation was paid; (D) The date the services were rendered; and (E) A general description of the services rendered.
(A) The name and address of the person or entity paying the fee, commission or other form of compensation;
(B) The person to whom the fee, commission or other form of compensation was paid, including the amount paid;
(C) The position of the person to whom the fee, commission or other form of compensation was paid;
(D) The date the services were rendered; and
(E) A general description of the services rendered.
(2) As used in this subsection (a), "consulting services" means services performed outside the state of Tennessee, which would be defined as "influencing legislative or administrative action", in § 3-6-301 , if such services were performed in the state of Tennessee. "Consulting services" also includes services to advise or assist a person or entity in maintaining, applying for, soliciting or entering into a contract with a state other than the state of Tennessee.
(b) The disclosure shall be on a form designed by the Tennessee ethics commission, shall be made under oath, and shall contain a statement that a false statement on the report is subject to the penalties of perjury. A disclosure form shall be filed within five (5) days of entering into a contract not involving the state of Tennessee with a member of the general assembly. Such form shall be updated annually, no later than February 1, if necessary.
(c) All disclosures made to the commission pursuant to this section are public records, and are open for inspection during regular business hours.
(d) (1) It is a Class C misdemeanor for any person or entity to knowingly fail to file a disclosure form as required by this section. (2) It is a Class C misdemeanor for any person or entity to file a disclosure form required by this section more than thirty (30) days after the date on which the report is due.
(1) It is a Class C misdemeanor for any person or entity to knowingly fail to file a disclosure form as required by this section.
(2) It is a Class C misdemeanor for any person or entity to file a disclosure form required by this section more than thirty (30) days after the date on which the report is due.
Acts 2005, ch. 476, § 3; 2006 (1st Ex. Sess.), ch. 1, § 28.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-10-108 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 10 / Section 2-10-108
Sworn complaint on statements of candidates or local political campaign committee - Penalty for false complaint
Status: in_force

(a) A registered voter of Tennessee may file a sworn complaint alleging that a statement filed regarding an election for which that voter was qualified to vote does not conform to law or to the truth or that a person has failed to file a statement required by law. (b) (1) All sworn complaints on a report of a candidate for state public office, a political campaign committee contributing to a candidate for state public office, or a political campaign committee registered with the registry of election finance must be filed in the office of the registry of election finance. The registry shall conduct a preliminary review to determine if the complaint is factually and legally sufficient. If the complaint is not factually and legally sufficient, then the registry shall dismiss the complaint and notify the complainant. If the registry determines the complaint is factually and legally sufficient, then the registry may refer the complaint to the office of the attorney general and reporter, who shall conduct a preliminary investigation and report the findings of the investigation in writing to the registry. Alternatively, if the registry determines that the complaint is factually and legally sufficient and that the circumstances are appropriate, then the registry may order the registry's staff to conduct an investigative audit of the alleged violator's campaign finance disclosure reports. In such instances, the alleged violator is obligated to produce all documentation required to be maintained by § 2-10-105(f) and to comply in good faith and with total candor with all requests for documentation or clarification properly requested by the registry's auditor or counsel. (2) Once either the attorney general's investigation or the audit is complete, the registry shall set the complaint for a show cause hearing to determine if the registry should take action regarding the complaint, including, but not limited to, assessing civil penalties pursuant to § 2-10-110 . Both the alleged violator and the complainant are entitled, upon request, to present evidence before the registry at or prior to the show cause hearing. The registry must have notice that evidence will be presented to the registry personally served upon, sent by return receipt requested mail, or sent by electronic mail to the alleged violator and the complainant. (3) The registry may determine the appropriate procedure for the presentation of evidence. After the conclusion of the show cause hearing, the registry shall reduce its decision to writing and provide a written statement of the registry's decision to all parties. (c) All sworn complaints on a statement of: (1) A candidate for local public office must be filed in the office of the district attorney general who represents the judicial district in which the voter resides; or (2) A local political campaign committee must be filed in the office of the registry of election finance. (d) Any person who knowingly and willfully files a sworn complaint which is false or for the purpose of harassment is subject to the civil penalties enacted into law by chapter 585 of the Public Acts of 1989, and is liable for reasonable attorneys' fees incurred by the candidate who was the subject of such complaint. Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 59, s 2, eff. 7/1/2023. Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 108, s 4, eff. 4/4/2023. Amended by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 901, s 1, eff. 4/19/2022. Acts 1980, ch. 861, § 9; 1989, ch. 585, § 16; 1989, ch. 591, § 113; 1990, ch. 943, § 2.
(a) A registered voter of Tennessee may file a sworn complaint alleging that a statement filed regarding an election for which that voter was qualified to vote does not conform to law or to the truth or that a person has failed to file a statement required by law.
(b) (1) All sworn complaints on a report of a candidate for state public office, a political campaign committee contributing to a candidate for state public office, or a political campaign committee registered with the registry of election finance must be filed in the office of the registry of election finance. The registry shall conduct a preliminary review to determine if the complaint is factually and legally sufficient. If the complaint is not factually and legally sufficient, then the registry shall dismiss the complaint and notify the complainant. If the registry determines the complaint is factually and legally sufficient, then the registry may refer the complaint to the office of the attorney general and reporter, who shall conduct a preliminary investigation and report the findings of the investigation in writing to the registry. Alternatively, if the registry determines that the complaint is factually and legally sufficient and that the circumstances are appropriate, then the registry may order the registry's staff to conduct an investigative audit of the alleged violator's campaign finance disclosure reports. In such instances, the alleged violator is obligated to produce all documentation required to be maintained by § 2-10-105(f) and to comply in good faith and with total candor with all requests for documentation or clarification properly requested by the registry's auditor or counsel. (2) Once either the attorney general's investigation or the audit is complete, the registry shall set the complaint for a show cause hearing to determine if the registry should take action regarding the complaint, including, but not limited to, assessing civil penalties pursuant to § 2-10-110 . Both the alleged violator and the complainant are entitled, upon request, to present evidence before the registry at or prior to the show cause hearing. The registry must have notice that evidence will be presented to the registry personally served upon, sent by return receipt requested mail, or sent by electronic mail to the alleged violator and the complainant. (3) The registry may determine the appropriate procedure for the presentation of evidence. After the conclusion of the show cause hearing, the registry shall reduce its decision to writing and provide a written statement of the registry's decision to all parties.
(1) All sworn complaints on a report of a candidate for state public office, a political campaign committee contributing to a candidate for state public office, or a political campaign committee registered with the registry of election finance must be filed in the office of the registry of election finance. The registry shall conduct a preliminary review to determine if the complaint is factually and legally sufficient. If the complaint is not factually and legally sufficient, then the registry shall dismiss the complaint and notify the complainant. If the registry determines the complaint is factually and legally sufficient, then the registry may refer the complaint to the office of the attorney general and reporter, who shall conduct a preliminary investigation and report the findings of the investigation in writing to the registry. Alternatively, if the registry determines that the complaint is factually and legally sufficient and that the circumstances are appropriate, then the registry may order the registry's staff to conduct an investigative audit of the alleged violator's campaign finance disclosure reports. In such instances, the alleged violator is obligated to produce all documentation required to be maintained by § 2-10-105(f) and to comply in good faith and with total candor with all requests for documentation or clarification properly requested by the registry's auditor or counsel.
(2) Once either the attorney general's investigation or the audit is complete, the registry shall set the complaint for a show cause hearing to determine if the registry should take action regarding the complaint, including, but not limited to, assessing civil penalties pursuant to § 2-10-110 . Both the alleged violator and the complainant are entitled, upon request, to present evidence before the registry at or prior to the show cause hearing. The registry must have notice that evidence will be presented to the registry personally served upon, sent by return receipt requested mail, or sent by electronic mail to the alleged violator and the complainant.
(3) The registry may determine the appropriate procedure for the presentation of evidence. After the conclusion of the show cause hearing, the registry shall reduce its decision to writing and provide a written statement of the registry's decision to all parties.
(c) All sworn complaints on a statement of: (1) A candidate for local public office must be filed in the office of the district attorney general who represents the judicial district in which the voter resides; or (2) A local political campaign committee must be filed in the office of the registry of election finance.
(1) A candidate for local public office must be filed in the office of the district attorney general who represents the judicial district in which the voter resides; or
(2) A local political campaign committee must be filed in the office of the registry of election finance.
(d) Any person who knowingly and willfully files a sworn complaint which is false or for the purpose of harassment is subject to the civil penalties enacted into law by chapter 585 of the Public Acts of 1989, and is liable for reasonable attorneys' fees incurred by the candidate who was the subject of such complaint.
Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 59, s 2, eff. 7/1/2023.
Amended by 2023 Tenn. Acts, ch. 108, s 4, eff. 4/4/2023.
Amended by 2022 Tenn. Acts, ch. 901, s 1, eff. 4/19/2022.
Acts 1980, ch. 861, § 9; 1989, ch. 585, § 16; 1989, ch. 591, § 113; 1990, ch. 943, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-9-114 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 9 / Section 2-9-114
Funding for voting machine loan fund
Status: in_force

All moneys paid by the county to the coordinator of elections under the provisions of either the contract, lease and option or the "voting machine loan agreement" shall be paid into the "voting machine loan fund" and shall be used to fund subsequent loans pursuant to § 2-9-112 in the manner provided by law. Nothing in this section shall be construed to exclude or prevent future appropriations for the purpose of funding the voting machine loan fund. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-914; Acts 1999, ch. 313, § 1.
All moneys paid by the county to the coordinator of elections under the provisions of either the contract, lease and option or the "voting machine loan agreement" shall be paid into the "voting machine loan fund" and shall be used to fund subsequent loans pursuant to § 2-9-112 in the manner provided by law. Nothing in this section shall be construed to exclude or prevent future appropriations for the purpose of funding the voting machine loan fund.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-914; Acts 1999, ch. 313, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-17-108 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 17 / Section 2-17-108
Witnesses
Status: in_force

The clerk of the court may, upon the application of either party, issue subpoenas for witnesses, and the witnesses summoned shall be bound under the same penalties as witnesses in the circuit court to attend and give evidence, and for such attendance shall be allowed the same compensation. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1708.
The clerk of the court may, upon the application of either party, issue subpoenas for witnesses, and the witnesses summoned shall be bound under the same penalties as witnesses in the circuit court to attend and give evidence, and for such attendance shall be allowed the same compensation.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1708.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-19-140 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 19 / Section 2-19-140
Penalty against corporation and officers
Status: in_force

(a) Any corporation offending against this chapter may be found guilty, and it and its officers through whom such offense was committed shall be fined and the officers imprisoned as other persons under this chapter. (b) Any corporation violating § 2-19-126 or § 2-19-134 shall in addition forfeit its charter and right to do business in this state. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1948.
(a) Any corporation offending against this chapter may be found guilty, and it and its officers through whom such offense was committed shall be fined and the officers imprisoned as other persons under this chapter.
(b) Any corporation violating § 2-19-126 or § 2-19-134 shall in addition forfeit its charter and right to do business in this state.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1948.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-13-316 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 13 / Section 2-13-316
Vacancies in delegation
Status: in_force

Vacancies in the delegation to the national nominating convention of a political party shall be filled in accordance with the rules of the respective party. Acts 1976, ch. 421, § 16; T.C.A., § 2-1356.
Vacancies in the delegation to the national nominating convention of a political party shall be filled in accordance with the rules of the respective party.
Acts 1976, ch. 421, § 16; T.C.A., § 2-1356.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-15-201 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 15 / Section 2-15-201
Short title
Status: in_force

This part is known and may be cited as the "Uniform Faithful Presidential Electors Act." Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 787,s 1, eff. 4/23/2024.
This part is known and may be cited as the "Uniform Faithful Presidential Electors Act."
Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 787,s 1, eff. 4/23/2024.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-2-303 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 2 / Section 2-2-303
Transfer of data from county election commission offices to the state coordinator of elections
Status: in_force

Data from county election commission offices shall be transferred to the state coordinator of elections via the Automated Electoral System (AES) not less than once daily. Acts 2005, ch. 308, § 1.
Data from county election commission offices shall be transferred to the state coordinator of elections via the Automated Electoral System (AES) not less than once daily.
Acts 2005, ch. 308, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-13-102 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 13 / Section 2-13-102
Creation of state primary boards
Status: in_force

(a) Each political party shall have a state executive committee which shall be the state primary board for the party. (b) The state primary board shall perform the duties and exercise the powers required by this title for its party. (c) The state primary board of each statewide political party created by this section is the immediate successor to the state board of primary election commissioners of each party. Wherever in the Tennessee Code the state board of primary election commissioners of a political party is referred to, "state primary board" shall be substituted. Acts 1972, ch. 740, §§ 1, 8; T.C.A., § 2-1303.
(a) Each political party shall have a state executive committee which shall be the state primary board for the party.
(b) The state primary board shall perform the duties and exercise the powers required by this title for its party.
(c) The state primary board of each statewide political party created by this section is the immediate successor to the state board of primary election commissioners of each party. Wherever in the Tennessee Code the state board of primary election commissioners of a political party is referred to, "state primary board" shall be substituted.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, §§ 1, 8; T.C.A., § 2-1303.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-7-113 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 7 / Section 2-7-113
Voting by machine
Status: in_force

(a) When the voter is to vote by voting machine, the voter shall then present the ballot application to the machine operator, enter the machine, and vote by marking the ballot and operating the machine. (b) The machine operator shall file the ballot applications in order of presentation and shall permit the voter to operate the machine for those elections in which the voter is entitled to vote. (c) The machine operator shall, upon demand of any voter before the voter enters the machine, tell the voter the order of the offices on the ballot and fully instruct the voter on how to operate the machine. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-713.
(a) When the voter is to vote by voting machine, the voter shall then present the ballot application to the machine operator, enter the machine, and vote by marking the ballot and operating the machine.
(b) The machine operator shall file the ballot applications in order of presentation and shall permit the voter to operate the machine for those elections in which the voter is entitled to vote.
(c) The machine operator shall, upon demand of any voter before the voter enters the machine, tell the voter the order of the offices on the ballot and fully instruct the voter on how to operate the machine.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-713.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-15-102 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 15 / Section 2-15-102
Residence requirements for electors
Status: in_force

For each congressional district there shall be elected one (1) elector who is a resident of the congressional district from which such elector is elected, and for the state there shall be two (2) electors who may be residents of any part of the state. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1502.
For each congressional district there shall be elected one (1) elector who is a resident of the congressional district from which such elector is elected, and for the state there shall be two (2) electors who may be residents of any part of the state.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1502.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-1-117 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 1 / Section 2-1-117
Newspaper of general circulation
Status: in_force

Notwithstanding any provision of this chapter to the contrary, in any municipality in any county having a metropolitan form of government and a population of more than one hundred thousand (100,000), according to the 1990 federal census or any subsequent federal census, and in any municipality incorporated pursuant to title 6, chapter 18, having a population of not less than eleven thousand two hundred (11,200) nor more than eleven thousand three hundred (11,300), according to the 1990 federal census or any subsequent federal census, which lies within both a county having a metropolitan form of government and a population in excess of one hundred thousand (100,000), according to the 1990 federal census or any subsequent federal census and a county having a population of not less than one hundred three thousand one hundred (103,100) nor more than one hundred three thousand four hundred (103,400), according to the 1990 federal census or any subsequent federal census, for the purposes of this chapter a "newspaper of general circulation" includes a publication bearing a title or name, regularly issued at least as frequently as once a week for a definite price, having a third-class mailing privilege, being not less than four (4) pages, published continuously during the immediately preceding one-year period, which is published for the dissemination of news of general interest to the community which it serves, and is circulated generally in the municipality in which it is published and in which notice is to be given. Acts 1993, ch. 507, § 1; 1994, ch. 898, § 1.
Notwithstanding any provision of this chapter to the contrary, in any municipality in any county having a metropolitan form of government and a population of more than one hundred thousand (100,000), according to the 1990 federal census or any subsequent federal census, and in any municipality incorporated pursuant to title 6, chapter 18, having a population of not less than eleven thousand two hundred (11,200) nor more than eleven thousand three hundred (11,300), according to the 1990 federal census or any subsequent federal census, which lies within both a county having a metropolitan form of government and a population in excess of one hundred thousand (100,000), according to the 1990 federal census or any subsequent federal census and a county having a population of not less than one hundred three thousand one hundred (103,100) nor more than one hundred three thousand four hundred (103,400), according to the 1990 federal census or any subsequent federal census, for the purposes of this chapter a "newspaper of general circulation" includes a publication bearing a title or name, regularly issued at least as frequently as once a week for a definite price, having a third-class mailing privilege, being not less than four (4) pages, published continuously during the immediately preceding one-year period, which is published for the dissemination of news of general interest to the community which it serves, and is circulated generally in the municipality in which it is published and in which notice is to be given.
Acts 1993, ch. 507, § 1; 1994, ch. 898, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-2-133 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 2 / Section 2-2-133
Report to coordinator of elections of deaths in state - Notification of county commissions - Information from social security administration death master file - Cancellation of registrations - Purge of records
Status: in_force

(a) (1) The state office of vital records of the department of health shall furnish the coordinator of elections a monthly, or more frequent, report, as required for compliance with this section, of all persons eighteen (18) years of age or over who have died in the state. The report shall list the deaths by county with the names in alphabetical order. The report shall contain each decedent's full name, last address, date and place of birth, and social security number. (2) The coordinator of elections shall, after receipt of the report, notify each county election commission of all persons of voting age who died with an address in their county. (b) The coordinator of elections shall annually obtain information regarding Tennessee residents eighteen (18) years of age or over identified as deceased by the federal social security administration death master file. The coordinator of elections shall, after obtaining the information, notify each county election commission of all persons of voting age who are listed as deceased with an address in their county. (c) The county election commission shall cancel the registration of each deceased person listed under the reports in subsection (a) or (b), in accordance with this chapter. (d) In accordance with § 2-2-106(a)(3) , each county election commission shall purge voting registration records of all deceased registered voters appearing on the report transmitted by the coordinator of elections at least every thirty (30) calendar days, and, beginning with the first day of any period of early voting, daily through the day of the election as such information is transmitted from the coordinator of elections. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; impl. am. Acts 1977, ch. 128, § 3; T.C.A., § 2-233; Acts 2006, ch. 578, §§ 1, 2; 2006, ch. 965, § 4.
(a) (1) The state office of vital records of the department of health shall furnish the coordinator of elections a monthly, or more frequent, report, as required for compliance with this section, of all persons eighteen (18) years of age or over who have died in the state. The report shall list the deaths by county with the names in alphabetical order. The report shall contain each decedent's full name, last address, date and place of birth, and social security number. (2) The coordinator of elections shall, after receipt of the report, notify each county election commission of all persons of voting age who died with an address in their county.
(1) The state office of vital records of the department of health shall furnish the coordinator of elections a monthly, or more frequent, report, as required for compliance with this section, of all persons eighteen (18) years of age or over who have died in the state. The report shall list the deaths by county with the names in alphabetical order. The report shall contain each decedent's full name, last address, date and place of birth, and social security number.
(2) The coordinator of elections shall, after receipt of the report, notify each county election commission of all persons of voting age who died with an address in their county.
(b) The coordinator of elections shall annually obtain information regarding Tennessee residents eighteen (18) years of age or over identified as deceased by the federal social security administration death master file. The coordinator of elections shall, after obtaining the information, notify each county election commission of all persons of voting age who are listed as deceased with an address in their county.
(c) The county election commission shall cancel the registration of each deceased person listed under the reports in subsection (a) or (b), in accordance with this chapter.
(d) In accordance with § 2-2-106(a)(3) , each county election commission shall purge voting registration records of all deceased registered voters appearing on the report transmitted by the coordinator of elections at least every thirty (30) calendar days, and, beginning with the first day of any period of early voting, daily through the day of the election as such information is transmitted from the coordinator of elections.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; impl. am. Acts 1977, ch. 128, § 3; T.C.A., § 2-233; Acts 2006, ch. 578, §§ 1, 2; 2006, ch. 965, § 4.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-10-307 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 10 / Section 2-10-307
Violations - Return of unlawful contributions
Status: in_force

(a) No candidate or political campaign committee shall accept any contribution or make any expenditure in violation of this part. No officer or employee of a political campaign committee shall accept a contribution made for the benefit or use of a candidate, or make any expenditure on behalf of a candidate, in violation of any limitation imposed on contributions and expenditures under this section. (b) In keeping with the federal law, a contribution made or accepted in excess of the limitations established by this part shall not be a violation of this part if the candidate or the political campaign committee returns or refunds the contribution to the person who made the contribution within sixty (60) days of the candidate's or committee's receipt of the contribution. Acts 1995, ch. 531, § 1.
(a) No candidate or political campaign committee shall accept any contribution or make any expenditure in violation of this part. No officer or employee of a political campaign committee shall accept a contribution made for the benefit or use of a candidate, or make any expenditure on behalf of a candidate, in violation of any limitation imposed on contributions and expenditures under this section.
(b) In keeping with the federal law, a contribution made or accepted in excess of the limitations established by this part shall not be a violation of this part if the candidate or the political campaign committee returns or refunds the contribution to the person who made the contribution within sixty (60) days of the candidate's or committee's receipt of the contribution.
Acts 1995, ch. 531, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-19-144 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 19 / Section 2-19-144
Campaign advertising
Status: in_force

It is unlawful for any person to place or attach any type of show-card, poster, or advertising material or device, including election campaign literature, on any kind of poles, towers, or fixtures of any public utility company, whether privately or publicly owned or as defined in § 65-4-101 , unless legally authorized to do so. Acts 1983, ch. 353, §§ 1-4; Acts 1997, ch. 45, § 1.
It is unlawful for any person to place or attach any type of show-card, poster, or advertising material or device, including election campaign literature, on any kind of poles, towers, or fixtures of any public utility company, whether privately or publicly owned or as defined in § 65-4-101 , unless legally authorized to do so.
Acts 1983, ch. 353, §§ 1-4; Acts 1997, ch. 45, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-12-210 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 12 / Section 2-12-210
Status as county employee unchanged
Status: in_force

Nothing in Acts 1986, ch. 930 shall be construed as conferring upon any county election commission, administrator of elections or any other county election official, status as a state employee. All such persons shall be subject to all applicable purchasing and budgetary laws of such county. Acts 1986, ch. 930, § 5.
Nothing in Acts 1986, ch. 930 shall be construed as conferring upon any county election commission, administrator of elections or any other county election official, status as a state employee. All such persons shall be subject to all applicable purchasing and budgetary laws of such county.
Acts 1986, ch. 930, § 5.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-19-117 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 19 / Section 2-19-117
Procuring illegal vote
Status: in_force

It is a Class E felony for any person to procure, aid, assist, counsel or advise another to vote in any convention, primary or final election, knowing such person is disqualified. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1917; Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 14.
It is a Class E felony for any person to procure, aid, assist, counsel or advise another to vote in any convention, primary or final election, knowing such person is disqualified.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1917; Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 14.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-15-105 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 15 / Section 2-15-105
[Repealed]
Status: repealed

Repealed by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 787,s 4, eff. 4/23/2024. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1505.
Repealed by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 787,s 4, eff. 4/23/2024.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1505.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-15-205 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 15 / Section 2-15-205
Certification of electors
Status: in_force

In submitting this state's certificate of ascertainment as required by 3 U.S.C. § 5 , the governor shall certify this state's electors and state in the certificate that: (1) The electors must serve as electors unless a vacancy occurs in the office of elector before the end of the meeting at which elector votes are cast, in which case a substitute elector must fill the vacancy; and (2) If a substitute elector is appointed to fill a vacancy, then the governor must submit an amended certificate of ascertainment stating the names on the final list of this state's electors. Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 787,s 1, eff. 4/23/2024.
In submitting this state's certificate of ascertainment as required by 3 U.S.C. § 5 , the governor shall certify this state's electors and state in the certificate that:
(1) The electors must serve as electors unless a vacancy occurs in the office of elector before the end of the meeting at which elector votes are cast, in which case a substitute elector must fill the vacancy; and
(2) If a substitute elector is appointed to fill a vacancy, then the governor must submit an amended certificate of ascertainment stating the names on the final list of this state's electors.
Added by 2024 Tenn. Acts, ch. 787,s 1, eff. 4/23/2024.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-12-101 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 12 / Section 2-12-101
Commissioners - Appointment - Removal - Legal representation
Status: in_force

(a) The state election commission shall appoint, on the first Monday in April of each odd-numbered year, five (5) election commissioners for each county, for terms of two (2) years and until their successors are appointed and qualified. The five (5) commissioners shall be the county election commission. (b) The state election commission shall remove a commissioner who becomes unqualified and may remove or otherwise discipline a commissioner for cause. (c) County election commissions shall be represented in legal proceedings as follows: (1) If the legal proceeding names the county election commissioners as defendants and the lawsuit involves a municipal election, the municipality concerned shall furnish counsel to represent the commissioners; (2) If the election involved in the legal proceedings is that of a county election, the county shall furnish counsel for the commissioners and if the election involved in the legal proceedings attacks a state law or presents a question concerning a state or federal election, the attorney general and reporter shall represent the commissioners either by the attorney general and reporter's own staff or by such counsel as the attorney general and reporter may designate; (3) The counsel furnished, whether by municipality or county, shall be that chosen by the election commission unless the commission carries an insurance policy providing coverage of claims asserted in a lawsuit, in which case the provisions of the insurance policy control with respect to representation of the commission; and (4) If, in order to properly discharge its duties, the county election commission has to bring legal action against a county or municipality, the compensation for the commission's legal representation shall be borne by the county or municipality, as the case may be. (d) The county election commission created by this section is the immediate successor to the commissioners of elections for each county. Wherever in the Tennessee Code the commissioners of elections for counties are referred to, the term "county election commission" shall be substituted. Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 44,s 1, eff. 3/28/2019. Acts 1972, ch. 740, §§ 1, 7; 1974, ch. 535, § 1; 1979, ch. 316, § 3; T.C.A., § 2-1201; Acts 1980, ch. 609, § 6; 1993, ch. 208, § 2.
(a) The state election commission shall appoint, on the first Monday in April of each odd-numbered year, five (5) election commissioners for each county, for terms of two (2) years and until their successors are appointed and qualified. The five (5) commissioners shall be the county election commission.
(b) The state election commission shall remove a commissioner who becomes unqualified and may remove or otherwise discipline a commissioner for cause.
(c) County election commissions shall be represented in legal proceedings as follows: (1) If the legal proceeding names the county election commissioners as defendants and the lawsuit involves a municipal election, the municipality concerned shall furnish counsel to represent the commissioners; (2) If the election involved in the legal proceedings is that of a county election, the county shall furnish counsel for the commissioners and if the election involved in the legal proceedings attacks a state law or presents a question concerning a state or federal election, the attorney general and reporter shall represent the commissioners either by the attorney general and reporter's own staff or by such counsel as the attorney general and reporter may designate; (3) The counsel furnished, whether by municipality or county, shall be that chosen by the election commission unless the commission carries an insurance policy providing coverage of claims asserted in a lawsuit, in which case the provisions of the insurance policy control with respect to representation of the commission; and (4) If, in order to properly discharge its duties, the county election commission has to bring legal action against a county or municipality, the compensation for the commission's legal representation shall be borne by the county or municipality, as the case may be.
(1) If the legal proceeding names the county election commissioners as defendants and the lawsuit involves a municipal election, the municipality concerned shall furnish counsel to represent the commissioners;
(2) If the election involved in the legal proceedings is that of a county election, the county shall furnish counsel for the commissioners and if the election involved in the legal proceedings attacks a state law or presents a question concerning a state or federal election, the attorney general and reporter shall represent the commissioners either by the attorney general and reporter's own staff or by such counsel as the attorney general and reporter may designate;
(3) The counsel furnished, whether by municipality or county, shall be that chosen by the election commission unless the commission carries an insurance policy providing coverage of claims asserted in a lawsuit, in which case the provisions of the insurance policy control with respect to representation of the commission; and
(4) If, in order to properly discharge its duties, the county election commission has to bring legal action against a county or municipality, the compensation for the commission's legal representation shall be borne by the county or municipality, as the case may be.
(d) The county election commission created by this section is the immediate successor to the commissioners of elections for each county. Wherever in the Tennessee Code the commissioners of elections for counties are referred to, the term "county election commission" shall be substituted.
Amended by 2019 Tenn. Acts, ch. 44,s 1, eff. 3/28/2019.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, §§ 1, 7; 1974, ch. 535, § 1; 1979, ch. 316, § 3; T.C.A., § 2-1201; Acts 1980, ch. 609, § 6; 1993, ch. 208, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-4-109 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 4 / Section 2-4-109
Compensation paid officials for services
Status: in_force

(a) Officers of elections, judges, machine operators, and inspectors shall be paid for their services on election day a minimum of fifty dollars ($50.00). Compensation for such persons shall be paid as soon as possible after the election. The compensation may be increased by the county legislative body. (b) Notwithstanding subsection (a), a person may volunteer to provide services under subsection (a) without compensation. Amended by 2017 Tenn. Acts, ch. 15, s 2, eff. 3/24/2017. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; 1977, ch. 469, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-409; Acts 1999, ch. 197, § 4; 2001, ch. 413, §5; 2008 , ch. 928, § 8.
(a) Officers of elections, judges, machine operators, and inspectors shall be paid for their services on election day a minimum of fifty dollars ($50.00). Compensation for such persons shall be paid as soon as possible after the election. The compensation may be increased by the county legislative body.
(b) Notwithstanding subsection (a), a person may volunteer to provide services under subsection (a) without compensation.
Amended by 2017 Tenn. Acts, ch. 15, s 2, eff. 3/24/2017.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; 1977, ch. 469, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-409; Acts 1999, ch. 197, § 4; 2001, ch. 413, §5; 2008 , ch. 928, § 8.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-6-501 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 6 / Section 2-6-501
Voting or registering by mail outside United States or by armed forces - Envelopes
Status: in_force

For persons voting absentee by mail or registering by mail from outside the territorial limits of the United States and for all armed forces personnel, there shall be printed across the face of each envelope in which a ballot or any registration material is to be sent the words "Official Election Balloting Material-Via Air Mail", or similar language. Furthermore, there shall be printed the words "Free of United States Postage, Including Air Mail." Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., §§ 2-606, 2-6-106; Acts 1994, ch. 859, § 6; 2008, ch. 928, § 13; 2011, ch. 176, § 1.
For persons voting absentee by mail or registering by mail from outside the territorial limits of the United States and for all armed forces personnel, there shall be printed across the face of each envelope in which a ballot or any registration material is to be sent the words "Official Election Balloting Material-Via Air Mail", or similar language. Furthermore, there shall be printed the words "Free of United States Postage, Including Air Mail."
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., §§ 2-606, 2-6-106; Acts 1994, ch. 859, § 6; 2008, ch. 928, § 13; 2011, ch. 176, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-8-108 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 8 / Section 2-8-108
Preservation of paper ballots and other ballot supplies
Status: in_force

(a) The commission shall preserve all paper ballots for six (6) months after the election to which they were cast or offered to be cast and may then dispose of them. During the period in which they are preserved, the packages of ballots shall be kept securely locked and may be opened and the ballots examined only on court order or under chapter 18 of this title. (b) All other election documents such as applications for all ballots, spoiled and rejected ballots, voter affidavits, records of assistance to voters, etc., shall be preserved by the county election commission for six (6) months or longer if so ordered by a court or by the coordinator of elections. All election documents pertaining to a federal election shall be preserved by the county election commission for twenty-two (22) months. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; 1979, ch. 306, § 6; T.C.A., §2-808; Acts 2009 , ch. 218, § 8.
(a) The commission shall preserve all paper ballots for six (6) months after the election to which they were cast or offered to be cast and may then dispose of them. During the period in which they are preserved, the packages of ballots shall be kept securely locked and may be opened and the ballots examined only on court order or under chapter 18 of this title.
(b) All other election documents such as applications for all ballots, spoiled and rejected ballots, voter affidavits, records of assistance to voters, etc., shall be preserved by the county election commission for six (6) months or longer if so ordered by a court or by the coordinator of elections. All election documents pertaining to a federal election shall be preserved by the county election commission for twenty-two (22) months.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; 1979, ch. 306, § 6; T.C.A., §2-808; Acts 2009 , ch. 218, § 8.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-10-406 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 10 / Section 2-10-406
Unused funds
Status: in_force

(a) The governor may hold over funds from the governor's first inauguration to be used in a second inauguration if the governor is re-elected. If the governor is either in a second term, chooses not to run for re-election or is not re-elected, the governor has ninety (90) days to donate any funds remaining in the gubernatorial inauguration fund to a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The governor may request from the registry of election finance an extension of an additional sixty (60) days to donate such remaining funds. (b) Once the funds have been donated as provided in subsection (a), a financial disclosure statement shall be filed with the registry of election finance disclosing who received such funds and the amount of such donation. Acts 2001, ch. 458, § 1.
(a) The governor may hold over funds from the governor's first inauguration to be used in a second inauguration if the governor is re-elected. If the governor is either in a second term, chooses not to run for re-election or is not re-elected, the governor has ninety (90) days to donate any funds remaining in the gubernatorial inauguration fund to a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. The governor may request from the registry of election finance an extension of an additional sixty (60) days to donate such remaining funds.
(b) Once the funds have been donated as provided in subsection (a), a financial disclosure statement shall be filed with the registry of election finance disclosing who received such funds and the amount of such donation.
Acts 2001, ch. 458, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-19-134 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 19 / Section 2-19-134
Coercing or directing employees to vote for measure, party, or person - Penalty
Status: in_force

(a) It is unlawful for any person to coerce or direct any employee to vote for any measure, party or person who may be a candidate for any office, or for any person who may be a candidate for nomination for any office, to threaten the discharge of such employee if the employee votes or does not vote for any such candidate for nomination or for office, or for any particular policy or measure. (b) It is unlawful to discharge any employee on account of such employee's exercise or failure to exercise the suffrage, or to give out or circulate any statement or report calculated to intimidate or coerce any employee to vote or not to vote for any candidate or measure. (c) A violation of this section is a Class C misdemeanor. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1934; Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 113.
(a) It is unlawful for any person to coerce or direct any employee to vote for any measure, party or person who may be a candidate for any office, or for any person who may be a candidate for nomination for any office, to threaten the discharge of such employee if the employee votes or does not vote for any such candidate for nomination or for office, or for any particular policy or measure.
(b) It is unlawful to discharge any employee on account of such employee's exercise or failure to exercise the suffrage, or to give out or circulate any statement or report calculated to intimidate or coerce any employee to vote or not to vote for any candidate or measure.
(c) A violation of this section is a Class C misdemeanor.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1934; Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 113.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-17-101 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 17 / Section 2-17-101
Jurisdiction - Standing
Status: in_force

(a) Except as otherwise expressly provided in this chapter, election contests shall be tried in the chancery court of the division in which the defendant resides. The chief justice of the supreme court shall assign a chancellor from a different division to decide a contested election of chancellor. (b) The incumbent office holder and any candidate for the office may contest the outcome of an election for the office. Any campaign committee or individual which has charge of a campaign for the adoption or rejection of a question submitted to the people may contest the election on the question. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1701.
(a) Except as otherwise expressly provided in this chapter, election contests shall be tried in the chancery court of the division in which the defendant resides. The chief justice of the supreme court shall assign a chancellor from a different division to decide a contested election of chancellor.
(b) The incumbent office holder and any candidate for the office may contest the outcome of an election for the office. Any campaign committee or individual which has charge of a campaign for the adoption or rejection of a question submitted to the people may contest the election on the question.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1701.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-6-205 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 6 / Section 2-6-205
Absentee voting for voters registered as nonresident property owners
Status: in_force

In the case of individuals who, pursuant to § 2-2-107(a) are registered to vote in a municipality as nonresident property owners, the municipal legislative body may, by ordinance, direct such voters to cast the municipal ballots as absentee by mail ballots. Any municipal ordinance adopted pursuant to this section must be adopted and filed with the county election commission office no later than sixty (60) days before the election. Upon the filing of the municipal ordinance, a nonresident property owner may not thereafter vote in the election except by absentee ballot. No later than forty-five (45) days before the election, the election commission shall mail a notice to each voter registered as a nonresident property owner of the municipality advising the voter of the voting process and include an application for ballot for the municipal election. The election commission shall maintain a record of the municipal ordinance and shall not require a municipality to adopt subsequent ordinances, unless the municipality has repealed such ordinance since the last election. Acts 2011, ch. 412, § 5.
In the case of individuals who, pursuant to § 2-2-107(a) are registered to vote in a municipality as nonresident property owners, the municipal legislative body may, by ordinance, direct such voters to cast the municipal ballots as absentee by mail ballots. Any municipal ordinance adopted pursuant to this section must be adopted and filed with the county election commission office no later than sixty (60) days before the election. Upon the filing of the municipal ordinance, a nonresident property owner may not thereafter vote in the election except by absentee ballot. No later than forty-five (45) days before the election, the election commission shall mail a notice to each voter registered as a nonresident property owner of the municipality advising the voter of the voting process and include an application for ballot for the municipal election. The election commission shall maintain a record of the municipal ordinance and shall not require a municipality to adopt subsequent ordinances, unless the municipality has repealed such ordinance since the last election.
Acts 2011, ch. 412, § 5.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-7-102 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 7 / Section 2-7-102
Judges
Status: in_force

During the time for voting, the judges shall distribute paper ballots, decide challenges to voters, serve in place of other election officials as directed by the officer of elections, and assist the officer of elections in such ways as the officer may direct. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-702.
During the time for voting, the judges shall distribute paper ballots, decide challenges to voters, serve in place of other election officials as directed by the officer of elections, and assist the officer of elections in such ways as the officer may direct.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-702.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-3-105 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 3 / Section 2-3-105
Publication of changes in precinct boundaries - Notice to affected voters and comptroller of the treasury
Status: in_force

Immediately after any alteration of precinct boundaries or change of district, the county election commission shall publish the changed boundaries in a newspaper of general circulation in the county. The county election commission shall mail to each active voter whose polling place is changed a notice of the voter's new polling place and precinct number. Furthermore, immediately after any alteration of precinct boundaries, the county election commission shall give written notification of such changes to the comptroller of the treasury. Amended by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 194, s 3, eff. 4/22/2021. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-305; Acts 1980, ch. 675, § 1; 2006, ch. 642, § 1; 2008 , ch. 928, § 7.
Immediately after any alteration of precinct boundaries or change of district, the county election commission shall publish the changed boundaries in a newspaper of general circulation in the county. The county election commission shall mail to each active voter whose polling place is changed a notice of the voter's new polling place and precinct number. Furthermore, immediately after any alteration of precinct boundaries, the county election commission shall give written notification of such changes to the comptroller of the treasury.
Amended by 2021 Tenn. Acts, ch. 194, s 3, eff. 4/22/2021.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-305; Acts 1980, ch. 675, § 1; 2006, ch. 642, § 1; 2008 , ch. 928, § 7.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-4-107 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 4 / Section 2-4-107
Notice of appointment - Form
Status: in_force

The secretary of the county election commission or the administrator of elections shall notify each official of such official's appointment by mail or email in substantially the following form: To ______________ You have been appointed by the County Election Commission as a ______________ (state in what capacity - judge, etc.) to hold the election at precinct ____________________, on the day of ______________, between the hours of ____________________ a.m. and ____________________ p.m. If you cannot serve, notify the administrator of elections immediately. Date ______________ ______________ Secretary, County Election Commission/Administrator of Elections Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 842, s 2, eff. 4/26/2018. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-407; Acts 1988, ch. 933, §§2, 3; 1997 , ch. 558, § 27.
The secretary of the county election commission or the administrator of elections shall notify each official of such official's appointment by mail or email in substantially the following form:
To ______________
You have been appointed by the County Election Commission as a ______________ (state in what capacity - judge, etc.) to hold the election at precinct ____________________, on the day of ______________, between the hours of ____________________ a.m. and ____________________ p.m. If you cannot serve, notify the administrator of elections immediately.
Date ______________
______________
Secretary, County Election Commission/Administrator of Elections
Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 842, s 2, eff. 4/26/2018.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-407; Acts 1988, ch. 933, §§2, 3; 1997 , ch. 558, § 27.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-20-102 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 20 / Section 2-20-102
Voter with disabilities - Privacy of ballot
Status: in_force

All voting systems shall meet the minimum federal law requirements with regard to enabling voters with disabilities to complete the voting process in a manner that maintains the privacy of the voter's ballot. Acts 2008, ch. 1108, § 3.
All voting systems shall meet the minimum federal law requirements with regard to enabling voters with disabilities to complete the voting process in a manner that maintains the privacy of the voter's ballot.
Acts 2008, ch. 1108, § 3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-12-207 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 12 / Section 2-12-207
Administration of oaths
Status: in_force

The administrator of elections, deputies, precinct registrars and assistant precinct registrars may administer oaths in the performance of their duties. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1215.
The administrator of elections, deputies, precinct registrars and assistant precinct registrars may administer oaths in the performance of their duties.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1215.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-14-104 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 14 / Section 2-14-104
Order - Contents and direction
Status: in_force

(a) The order to hold an election for an office shall specify the counties, county or district in which and the day on which the election is to be held, the reason for the election, and the name of the person in whose office the vacancy has occurred. (b) The order shall be directed to the county election commission or commissions which are to hold the election. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1404.
(a) The order to hold an election for an office shall specify the counties, county or district in which and the day on which the election is to be held, the reason for the election, and the name of the person in whose office the vacancy has occurred.
(b) The order shall be directed to the county election commission or commissions which are to hold the election.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1404.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-19-123 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 19 / Section 2-19-123
Penalty for violation of Section 2-19-121 or Section 2-19-122
Status: in_force

A violation of any of the provisions of § 2-19-121 or § 2-19-122 is a Class C misdemeanor. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1923; Acts 1989, ch. 591 § 13.
A violation of any of the provisions of § 2-19-121 or § 2-19-122 is a Class C misdemeanor.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1923; Acts 1989, ch. 591 § 13.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-6-301 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 6 / Section 2-6-301
Duplicate registration form filed in binder - Computerized reports - List posted
Status: in_force

(a) In all counties, the attesting official shall update the voter's computerized voter history by making the appropriate data entry. Upon issuance of an absentee ballot, the voter shall not thereafter vote in the election except by absentee ballot, or pursuant to § 2-7-112(a)(3)(A) ; provided, however, that if the ballot is issued pursuant to § 2-6-502 this subsection (a) does not apply. (b) All absentee voting applications shall be filed alphabetically by election day in a binder and kept in the county election commission office as a public record through election day. As an alternative, a county election commission may maintain, on a daily basis, absentee voting applications as part of a computer-generated report. Such report is a public record. (c) The county election commission shall furnish each polling place with a certified copy of a complete alphabetical list of its absentee voters for each election, and the copy shall be displayed at the polling place throughout the voting hours on election day. Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 726,s 1, eff. 4/18/2018. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-615; Acts 1981, ch. 241, § 1; 1981, ch. 335, § 1; 1988, ch. 993, § 6; T.C.A., § 2-6-115; Acts 1994, ch. 859, § 2; 1995, ch. 69, § 1; 2010, ch. 636, § 1.
(a) In all counties, the attesting official shall update the voter's computerized voter history by making the appropriate data entry. Upon issuance of an absentee ballot, the voter shall not thereafter vote in the election except by absentee ballot, or pursuant to § 2-7-112(a)(3)(A) ; provided, however, that if the ballot is issued pursuant to § 2-6-502 this subsection (a) does not apply.
(b) All absentee voting applications shall be filed alphabetically by election day in a binder and kept in the county election commission office as a public record through election day. As an alternative, a county election commission may maintain, on a daily basis, absentee voting applications as part of a computer-generated report. Such report is a public record.
(c) The county election commission shall furnish each polling place with a certified copy of a complete alphabetical list of its absentee voters for each election, and the copy shall be displayed at the polling place throughout the voting hours on election day.
Amended by 2018 Tenn. Acts, ch. 726,s 1, eff. 4/18/2018.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-615; Acts 1981, ch. 241, § 1; 1981, ch. 335, § 1; 1988, ch. 993, § 6; T.C.A., § 2-6-115; Acts 1994, ch. 859, § 2; 1995, ch. 69, § 1; 2010, ch. 636, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-3-305 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 3 / Section 2-3-305
Applicability of polling place requirements
Status: in_force

Section 2-3-107 shall apply to convenient voting centers. Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 768,s 1, eff. 1/1/2017. Acts 2008, ch. 1087, § 1.
Section 2-3-107 shall apply to convenient voting centers.
Amended by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 768,s 1, eff. 1/1/2017.
Acts 2008, ch. 1087, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-13-115 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 13 / Section 2-13-115
Exemption for honorably discharged veterans running for political office
Status: in_force

A person who is an honorably discharged veteran of the United States armed forces, a member of the Tennessee national guard, a member of the Tennessee air national guard, or an inactive reservist of any of the United States uniformed military services in good standing must not be disqualified as a candidate for any office if, for service-related reasons, that person was unable to comply with a statewide political party's or recognized minor party's rules for candidacy for nomination for such party, and such service-related reasons are the sole reason the person is unable to qualify. Acts 2018, ch. 992, § 2.
A person who is an honorably discharged veteran of the United States armed forces, a member of the Tennessee national guard, a member of the Tennessee air national guard, or an inactive reservist of any of the United States uniformed military services in good standing must not be disqualified as a candidate for any office if, for service-related reasons, that person was unable to comply with a statewide political party's or recognized minor party's rules for candidacy for nomination for such party, and such service-related reasons are the sole reason the person is unable to qualify.
Acts 2018, ch. 992, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-10-305 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 10 / Section 2-10-305
Retention or transfer of funds
Status: in_force

The limits contained in this part do not apply to: (1) The retention of funds by a candidate pursuant to § 2-10-114(a)(1) ; (2) The transfer of funds by a candidate pursuant to § 2-10-114(a)(1) to a campaign fund of the same candidate for election to a different state or local public office; or (3) The transfer of funds by a candidate for election to a federal office to a campaign fund of the same candidate for election to a state or local public office. Acts 1995, ch. 531, § 1.
The limits contained in this part do not apply to:
(1) The retention of funds by a candidate pursuant to § 2-10-114(a)(1) ;
(2) The transfer of funds by a candidate pursuant to § 2-10-114(a)(1) to a campaign fund of the same candidate for election to a different state or local public office; or
(3) The transfer of funds by a candidate for election to a federal office to a campaign fund of the same candidate for election to a state or local public office.
Acts 1995, ch. 531, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-1-118 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 1 / Section 2-1-118
Consolidated report on the Help America Vote Act requirements and payments
Status: in_force

The secretary of state shall file a copy of the previous year's consolidated report on the Help America Vote Act (HAVA) Title I, § 101 ( 42 U.S.C. § 15301 ), funds and Title II, § 251 ( 42 U.S.C. § 15401 ), requirements and payments to the finance, ways and means committees of the senate and house of representatives, the fiscal review committee and the office of legislative budget analysis by February 1 of each year. Acts 2010 , ch. 947, § 1.
The secretary of state shall file a copy of the previous year's consolidated report on the Help America Vote Act (HAVA) Title I, § 101 ( 42 U.S.C. § 15301 ), funds and Title II, § 251 ( 42 U.S.C. § 15401 ), requirements and payments to the finance, ways and means committees of the senate and house of representatives, the fiscal review committee and the office of legislative budget analysis by February 1 of each year.
Acts 2010 , ch. 947, § 1.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-19-110 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 19 / Section 2-19-110
Abuse of voter assistance
Status: in_force

A person commits a Class A misdemeanor if such person assists any person in voting except as permitted by this title, or if such person knowingly casts any vote or consents to the casting of any vote contrary to the desire of the voter while otherwise lawfully assisting the voter in casting such person's vote or if, being an election official or other person otherwise lawfully assisting a voter, such person influences or attempts to influence the voter in casting such person's vote. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1910; Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 113; 2006, ch. 903, § 3.
A person commits a Class A misdemeanor if such person assists any person in voting except as permitted by this title, or if such person knowingly casts any vote or consents to the casting of any vote contrary to the desire of the voter while otherwise lawfully assisting the voter in casting such person's vote or if, being an election official or other person otherwise lawfully assisting a voter, such person influences or attempts to influence the voter in casting such person's vote.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1910; Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 113; 2006, ch. 903, § 3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-14-106 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 14 / Section 2-14-106
Time when qualifying petitions are to be filed
Status: in_force

(a) Candidates for office in a special election shall qualify as required in regular elections but shall file qualifying petitions no later than twelve o'clock (12:00) noon prevailing time on the sixth Thursday before the day of the election to have their names printed on the ballots. Party nominations shall be made under §§ 2-5-101(g) and 2-13-204 subject to the deadline in the preceding sentence. (b) In counties having a population in excess of six hundred thousand (600,000), according to the federal census of 1970 or any subsequent federal census, when a special election is being held in conjunction with either a municipal, August primary or general election, the time of qualifying for candidates to the office for which the special election is being held shall conform and be governed by the same time and the same date prescribed for the municipal, August primary or general election; but in no way shall the time for qualifying specified by this subsection (b) be less than the qualifying time prescribed for the special election. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; 1975, ch. 84, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1406; Acts 2012, ch. 1101, § 10.
(a) Candidates for office in a special election shall qualify as required in regular elections but shall file qualifying petitions no later than twelve o'clock (12:00) noon prevailing time on the sixth Thursday before the day of the election to have their names printed on the ballots. Party nominations shall be made under §§ 2-5-101(g) and 2-13-204 subject to the deadline in the preceding sentence.
(b) In counties having a population in excess of six hundred thousand (600,000), according to the federal census of 1970 or any subsequent federal census, when a special election is being held in conjunction with either a municipal, August primary or general election, the time of qualifying for candidates to the office for which the special election is being held shall conform and be governed by the same time and the same date prescribed for the municipal, August primary or general election; but in no way shall the time for qualifying specified by this subsection (b) be less than the qualifying time prescribed for the special election.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; 1975, ch. 84, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1406; Acts 2012, ch. 1101, § 10.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-5-107 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 5 / Section 2-5-107
Inapplicability of part to certain retention elections
Status: in_force

This part shall not apply to a retention election in which a judge of the supreme court, the court of appeals, or the court of criminal appeals seeks election to fill the office to which the incumbent judge was appointed and confirmed. Title 17, chapter 4, part 1 shall govern such elections. Added by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 528,s 1, eff. 1/28/2016.
This part shall not apply to a retention election in which a judge of the supreme court, the court of appeals, or the court of criminal appeals seeks election to fill the office to which the incumbent judge was appointed and confirmed. Title 17, chapter 4, part 1 shall govern such elections.
Added by 2016 Tenn. Acts, ch. 528,s 1, eff. 1/28/2016.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-6-312 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 6 / Section 2-6-312
Official forms at expense of state
Status: in_force

The coordinator of elections shall prepare and furnish all applications, envelopes, instructions and other official forms for use under this chapter at the expense of the state. With the approval of the coordinator of elections, a county election commission may use its own computer-generated forms. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., §§ 2-628, 2-6-128; Acts 1994, ch. 859, § 2.
The coordinator of elections shall prepare and furnish all applications, envelopes, instructions and other official forms for use under this chapter at the expense of the state. With the approval of the coordinator of elections, a county election commission may use its own computer-generated forms.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., §§ 2-628, 2-6-128; Acts 1994, ch. 859, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-13-208 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 13 / Section 2-13-208
Municipal elections to be nonpartisan
Status: in_force

(a) Notwithstanding other provisions of this part, municipal elections shall be nonpartisan. Municipal elections shall not require candidates to be nominated by political parties unless the municipality's charter specifically permits partisan elections. When a municipality's charter allows partisan elections, political parties may nominate candidates for municipal office by using the primary election provisions of this title or as otherwise authorized by the rules of the party. (b) In any county having a metropolitan form of government, the election of the county mayor and the members of the legislative body of such metropolitan government shall be considered to be municipal elections within the meaning of this section; however, this section shall not be construed to require a partisan election for any other officers of the metropolitan government if the charter of such metropolitan government provides that elections for such officers shall be nonpartisan. Acts 1993, ch. 89, § 1; 2003, ch. 90, § 2.
(a) Notwithstanding other provisions of this part, municipal elections shall be nonpartisan. Municipal elections shall not require candidates to be nominated by political parties unless the municipality's charter specifically permits partisan elections. When a municipality's charter allows partisan elections, political parties may nominate candidates for municipal office by using the primary election provisions of this title or as otherwise authorized by the rules of the party.
(b) In any county having a metropolitan form of government, the election of the county mayor and the members of the legislative body of such metropolitan government shall be considered to be municipal elections within the meaning of this section; however, this section shall not be construed to require a partisan election for any other officers of the metropolitan government if the charter of such metropolitan government provides that elections for such officers shall be nonpartisan.
Acts 1993, ch. 89, § 1; 2003, ch. 90, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-9-110 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 9 / Section 2-9-110
Use of non-standard machines
Status: in_force

(a) The county election commission, with the approval of the coordinator of elections and the state election commission, may provide for the use of voting machines which do not meet the requirements of this title except under this section. (b) Machines and procedure for such use shall provide as much protection for the purity of the ballot and against election fraud as do voting machines which otherwise meet the requirements of this title. (c) The use of voting machines in compliance with this section and the rules of the coordinator of elections shall be as valid for all purposes in an election as if the machines had otherwise met the requirements of this title for voting machines. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-910.
(a) The county election commission, with the approval of the coordinator of elections and the state election commission, may provide for the use of voting machines which do not meet the requirements of this title except under this section.
(b) Machines and procedure for such use shall provide as much protection for the purity of the ballot and against election fraud as do voting machines which otherwise meet the requirements of this title.
(c) The use of voting machines in compliance with this section and the rules of the coordinator of elections shall be as valid for all purposes in an election as if the machines had otherwise met the requirements of this title for voting machines.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-910.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-7-122 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 7 / Section 2-7-122
Management of machine during voting
Status: in_force

(a) The voting machine operator shall inspect the face of the machine after every voter has voted to ascertain that the ballot labels are in their proper places and that the machine has not been injured or tampered with. The operator shall remove any campaign literature left in the machine booth. (b) During the election the door or other compartment of the machine may not be unlocked or opened or the counters exposed except by the voting machine technician or other authorized person, a statement of which shall be made and signed by the voting machine technician or authorized person and attached to the returns. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-722.
(a) The voting machine operator shall inspect the face of the machine after every voter has voted to ascertain that the ballot labels are in their proper places and that the machine has not been injured or tampered with. The operator shall remove any campaign literature left in the machine booth.
(b) During the election the door or other compartment of the machine may not be unlocked or opened or the counters exposed except by the voting machine technician or other authorized person, a statement of which shall be made and signed by the voting machine technician or authorized person and attached to the returns.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-722.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-13-319 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 13 / Section 2-13-319
Conduct of elections
Status: in_force

The elections shall be conducted in accordance with chapters 1-19 of this title. Contested elections shall be determined in the manner provided for the determination of contested elections for primary candidates for statewide office. Acts 1976, ch. 421, § 19; T.C.A., § 2-1359.
The elections shall be conducted in accordance with chapters 1-19 of this title. Contested elections shall be determined in the manner provided for the determination of contested elections for primary candidates for statewide office.
Acts 1976, ch. 421, § 19; T.C.A., § 2-1359.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-6-308 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 6 / Section 2-6-308
Early and absentee voting applications - Uniform forms
Status: in_force

The coordinator of elections shall adopt uniform forms for each county election commission for an application for early voting and absentee voting. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; 1977, ch. 213, § 1; 1978, ch. 814, § 4; 1978, ch. 861, § 3; T.C.A., §§ 2-623, 2-6-123; Acts 1994, ch. 859, § 2.
The coordinator of elections shall adopt uniform forms for each county election commission for an application for early voting and absentee voting.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; 1977, ch. 213, § 1; 1978, ch. 814, § 4; 1978, ch. 861, § 3; T.C.A., §§ 2-623, 2-6-123; Acts 1994, ch. 859, § 2.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-6-101 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 6 / Section 2-6-101
Purpose of chapter and part - Construction
Status: in_force

(a) The purpose of this chapter is to provide a means for qualified voters to cast their votes when they would otherwise be unable to vote. (b) The purpose of this part is to establish an early voting period when eligible registered voters may vote before an election at the county election commission office or another polling place appropriately designated by the county election commission. (c) To prevent fraud in an election, strict compliance with this chapter is required. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-601; Acts 1994, ch. 859, § 2; 1995, ch. 88, § 9.
(a) The purpose of this chapter is to provide a means for qualified voters to cast their votes when they would otherwise be unable to vote.
(b) The purpose of this part is to establish an early voting period when eligible registered voters may vote before an election at the county election commission office or another polling place appropriately designated by the county election commission.
(c) To prevent fraud in an election, strict compliance with this chapter is required.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-601; Acts 1994, ch. 859, § 2; 1995, ch. 88, § 9.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-5-201 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 5 / Section 2-5-201
Printing of ballots
Status: in_force

All ballots used in elections shall be printed and made as provided in this chapter except to the extent that other sections of this title expressly provide otherwise. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-501.
All ballots used in elections shall be printed and made as provided in this chapter except to the extent that other sections of this title expressly provide otherwise.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-501.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-2-126 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 2 / Section 2-2-126
Keeping of original and duplicate registration records
Status: in_force

(a) Once the person is registered, the administrator of elections shall file the original permanent registration record alphabetically in the master file of all the registered voters in the county. (b) The coordinator of elections shall devise a method to be followed for the filing and preservation of postal card registrations and computerized duplicate registration records in any county utilizing a computerized voter registration system. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; 1975, ch. 308, § 7; T.C.A., § 2-226; Acts 1984, ch. 935, §§ 2, 6; 1989, ch. 590, § 2; 2008, ch. 928, § 3.
(a) Once the person is registered, the administrator of elections shall file the original permanent registration record alphabetically in the master file of all the registered voters in the county.
(b) The coordinator of elections shall devise a method to be followed for the filing and preservation of postal card registrations and computerized duplicate registration records in any county utilizing a computerized voter registration system.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; 1975, ch. 308, § 7; T.C.A., § 2-226; Acts 1984, ch. 935, §§ 2, 6; 1989, ch. 590, § 2; 2008, ch. 928, § 3.
Tenn. Code Ann. § 2-18-112 — TN Code / Title 2 / Chapter 18 / Section 2-18-112
Report of committee
Status: in_force

The committee shall proceed with all convenient speed to file its report with the speaker of the senate. The evidence shall accompany the report. Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1812.
The committee shall proceed with all convenient speed to file its report with the speaker of the senate. The evidence shall accompany the report.
Acts 1972, ch. 740, § 1; T.C.A., § 2-1812.