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HB 851

Election Laws - As introduced, makes changes to the process for voting absentee under the federal Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act. - Amends TCA Title 2, Chapter 6, Part 5.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Michele Reneau

HB 851 modifies Tennessee's absentee voting procedures for military personnel and overseas citizens under federal UOCAVA requirements.

Action def. in State & Local Government Committee to 3/24/2026
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Bill Summary · HB 851

Legislative bill overview

HB 851 modifies Tennessee's implementation of the federal Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act (UOCAVA), which governs voting procedures for military personnel and U.S. citizens living abroad. The bill amends TCA Title 2, Chapter 6, Part 5 to change specific processes related to absentee voting for these populations. The exact modifications are not detailed in the available legislative summary.

Why is this important

UOCAVA voting affects military service members deployed overseas and Americans living abroad—populations that face unique logistical challenges in participating in elections. Changes to these procedures can either facilitate or complicate voting access for citizens in these circumstances. Given Tennessee's military installations and expatriate population, procedural changes warrant careful consideration of their practical effects.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of changes unclear: The bill summary does not specify which particular UOCAVA processes are being modified, making it difficult to assess whether changes expand or restrict voting access
  • Federal vs. state authority: UOCAVA is federal law with state implementation requirements; changes must maintain compliance while potentially creating complexity
  • Military community impact: Any modifications to procedures affecting military voters may face scrutiny from veteran and military family advocacy groups regarding accessibility

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

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