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Bill

SB 888

Firefighters - As introduced, increases from within two weeks to 15 days after the occurrence of a vacancy in the office of any commissioner caused by death, resignation, disability, or forfeiture of office, and no later than 30 days prior to the expiration of the term of office of any incumbent commissioner, the time within which the chair of the commission must notify the appropriate association of the vacancy or expiration of the term when the vacancy or expiration results in an opening for that particular association to make recommendations for an appointment. - Amends TCA Title 4; Title 7; Title 8; Title 49; Title 50; Title 55 and Title 68.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026)

SB 888 extends firefighter commission vacancy notification from 2 weeks to 15 days after occurrence, giving professional associations more advance notice to recommend appointees.

Assigned to General Subcommittee of Senate Commerce and Labor Committee
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Bill Summary · SB 888

Legislative bill overview

SB 888 extends the notification timeline for firefighter commission vacancies from two weeks to 15 days after the vacancy occurs, or no later than 30 days before a commissioner's term expires. This gives professional firefighter associations more advance notice to prepare and submit candidates for appointment to various state commissions.

Why is this important

Firefighter commissions influence policy decisions affecting working conditions, benefits, and standards across Tennessee. Extended notification periods allow associations more time to vet candidates and ensure their representatives have meaningful input in the appointment process, potentially improving the quality and legitimacy of commission composition.

Potential points of contention

  • Administrative burden: Requiring earlier notifications may strain commission staff managing multiple vacancies across different titles and agencies
  • Flexibility concerns: The rigid 30-day pre-expiration deadline could create scheduling conflicts or prevent urgent interim appointments when needed
  • Scope ambiguity: The bill amends six different Title codes, raising questions about whether the timeline applies uniformly or if certain commissions face different requirements

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

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