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HB 597

Lobbying, Lobbyists - As introduced, requires each lobbyist to include and maintain in the lobbyist's registration statement filed with the Tennessee ethics commission the identification of each bill and legislative measure for which the lobbyist is receiving compensation to oppose or support. - Amends TCA Title 3, Chapter 6.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Bob Freeman

Tennessee bill requires lobbyists to publicly disclose which specific bills they're paid to support or oppose in ethics filings.

Failed in s/c Public Service Subcommittee of State & Local Government Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 597

Legislative bill overview

HB 597 would require Tennessee lobbyists to disclose in their registration statements which specific bills and legislative measures they are paid to support or oppose. This amendment to Tennessee's ethics law aims to increase transparency in the lobbying disclosure process by connecting compensation to particular legislative priorities.

Why is this important

Lobbyist disclosure requirements form the backbone of transparency in state legislatures, allowing the public and policymakers to understand who is funding efforts to influence legislation. More detailed disclosure of specific bills could help legislators and constituents identify potential conflicts of interest and better understand the financial interests behind policy positions.

Potential points of contention

  • Administrative burden: Lobbyists argue that detailed bill-by-bill tracking increases compliance costs and paperwork complexity, particularly for firms lobbying on multiple measures simultaneously
  • Competitiveness concerns: Some lobbyists may contend that identifying which bills they oppose could disadvantage their clients by revealing legislative strategies to competitors or opponents
  • Definition ambiguity: The bill's language around "legislative measures" could be unclear—does this include proposed amendments, procedural votes, or only full bills, and how are related bills handled?

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

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