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Bill

HB 2167

Election Laws - As introduced, requires all public institutions of higher education in this state to observe an academic holiday on each general election day. - Amends TCA Title 2; Title 49, Chapter 11; Title 49, Chapter 7; Title 49, Chapter 8 and Title 49, Chapter 9.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Jody Barrett

Tennessee bill requires public universities and colleges to close on general election days as academic holidays to facilitate student voting participation.

Received from House, Passed on First Consideration
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Bill Summary · HB 2167

Legislative bill overview

HB 2167 would require all public higher education institutions in Tennessee to close and observe general election days as academic holidays. The bill modifies multiple sections of Tennessee Code Annotated related to elections and higher education operations.

Why is this important

The bill directly affects student voting access and institutional operations at universities and colleges across Tennessee. It reflects a policy choice about whether removing barriers to voting participation outweighs disruptions to academic calendars and campus activities.

Potential points of contention

  • Academic calendar disruption: Colleges may face challenges restructuring semesters, final exams, and course schedules around mandatory election day closures, potentially affecting graduation timelines and program delivery
  • Limited voter impact: Most college students can already vote early or by absentee ballot; the necessity and effectiveness of a full institutional closure for voting access is debatable
  • Implementation costs and logistics: Institutions must absorb costs of closure (facility operations, staff scheduling) and determine how to reschedule classes and services without clear guidance on alternatives

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

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