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SB 1567

Constitutional Conventions - As enacted, revises faithful delegate laws pertaining to Article V conventions. - Amends TCA Title 3, Chapter 18.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Kerry Roberts

SB 1567 revises Tennessee's rules binding convention delegates to their instructions, affecting state control over Article V constitutional convention participation.

Signed by Governor.
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Bill Summary · SB 1567

Legislative bill overview

SB 1567 revises Tennessee's laws governing "faithful delegate" requirements for Article V constitutional conventions. Article V conventions are mechanisms by which states can propose amendments to the U.S. Constitution. The bill modifies TCA Title 3, Chapter 18 to adjust how delegates to such conventions are bound by their instructions.

Why is this important

Article V conventions are rare but constitutionally significant events that could fundamentally alter U.S. governance. Faithful delegate laws determine whether convention delegates must strictly follow their state's instructions or retain discretionary authority. This directly affects whether Tennessee can control its delegates' behavior at a convention and what safeguards exist against unauthorized constitutional changes.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of delegate discretion: Changes to faithful delegate requirements could either strengthen or weaken Tennessee's ability to constrain how its delegates vote, depending on whether the revision loosens or tightens restrictions
  • Convention control concerns: Critics may worry that reduced faithful delegate requirements allow delegates to deviate from state intent; supporters may argue flexibility is necessary for productive interstate negotiations
  • Precedent and interstate coordination: The bill's specific modifications could create inconsistency with other states' delegate laws, potentially complicating multi-state convention procedures

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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