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HB 418

Public Records - As enacted, authorizes the comptroller of the treasury to publish certain survey data that is otherwise deemed confidential. - Amends TCA Section 10-7-504.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Rick Scarbrough

Allows Tennessee's comptroller to publicly release previously confidential survey data at their discretion.

Comp. became Pub. Ch. 365
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Bill Summary · HB 418

Legislative bill overview

HB 418 modifies Tennessee Code Annotated Section 10-7-504 to allow the state comptroller to publicly release certain survey data that is currently classified as confidential. The bill creates an exception to existing public records confidentiality protections specifically for survey information the comptroller deems appropriate to publish.

Why is this important

This legislation affects government transparency and data access. Releasing survey data could improve public understanding of state economic conditions, demographics, or other measured factors, but it also requires balancing confidentiality protections that may exist for survey respondents or sensitive information. The practical impact depends entirely on which specific survey data the comptroller chooses to publish.

Potential points of contention

  • Respondent privacy concerns: Survey participants may have provided information under confidentiality assurances; broader publication could discourage future participation or violate implicit privacy agreements
  • Discretionary authority: Granting the comptroller unilateral discretion to determine what survey data becomes public creates potential for inconsistent application and lacks legislative oversight of specific releases
  • Scope ambiguity: The bill does not specify which surveys are affected, what redaction standards apply, or whether there are limitations on the comptroller's publishing authority

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

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