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SB 387

Public Officials - As introduced, authorizes local governments to adopt a process by which local elected officials may be removed from office in a recall election. - Amends TCA Title 2; Title 8, Chapter 47 and Title 49, Chapter 2.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Brent Taylor

SB 387 allows Tennessee local governments to establish recall election procedures for removing elected officials before their terms end, shifting accountability decisions to individual communities.

Passed on Second Consideration, refer to Senate State and Local Government Committee
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Bill Summary · SB 387

Legislative bill overview

SB 387 authorizes Tennessee local governments to establish recall election processes for removing elected officials from office before their terms expire. The bill amends state law to permit—but does not mandate—municipalities and counties to adopt their own recall procedures, giving local voters a direct removal mechanism.

Why is this important

Recall elections are a form of direct democracy that can increase official accountability between elections, though they can also destabilize governance if used frequently or frivolously. Currently, Tennessee does not have a statewide recall mechanism for local officials, so this bill delegates that decision to individual localities, making it a significant shift in how local accountability works.

Potential points of contention

  • Local variation in standards: Different municipalities could establish vastly different recall thresholds, signature requirements, and procedures, creating inconsistent rules across the state
  • Potential for abuse: Recall elections could be weaponized against officials for unpopular but necessary decisions, or used for partisan advantage rather than genuine misconduct
  • Disruption of governance: Frequent or threatened recalls might distract officials from duties or discourage qualified candidates from running for office

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

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