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HB 1293

Public Records - As enacted, deletes the automatic repeal on July 1, 2025, of a provision that authorizes records custodians to seek an injunction against a person who makes requests to view or copy public records with the intent to disrupt government operations. - Amends TCA Title 10, Chapter 7, Part 5.

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

Tennessee bill makes permanent the authority for government agencies to seek court injunctions against public records requesters deemed to be seeking information to deliberately disrupt operations.

Comp. became Pub. Ch. 392
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Bill Summary · HB 1293

Legislative bill overview

HB 1293 makes permanent a provision in Tennessee law that allows government records custodians to seek court injunctions against individuals who make public records requests with the specific intent to disrupt government operations. The bill removes the sunset clause that would have automatically repealed this authority on July 1, 2025, effectively making it a permanent part of state law.

Why is this important

Public records access is foundational to government transparency and accountability. This bill affects the balance between citizens' right to information and government's ability to manage disruptive behavior. The provision targets intent to disrupt operations specifically, rather than broad record requests, but how that intent is determined and proven in court could significantly impact how readily government agencies respond to or challenge legitimate requests.

Potential points of contention

  • Chilling effect on legitimate requests: Critics may argue that permanent injunction authority could discourage citizens from making frequent or voluminous public records requests, even for legitimate transparency purposes, if they fear legal action.
  • Vague "intent to disrupt" standard: The definition of what constitutes requesting records "with intent to disrupt operations" is subjective and could be interpreted broadly, creating uncertainty about which requests might trigger injunctions.
  • Burden of proof and litigation costs: Determining a requester's intent requires evidence and litigation, which could become costly for both government agencies and citizens, potentially shifting resources away from actually providing records.

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

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