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SB 1720

Public Records - As introduced, makes the addresses on a nominating petition for the office of judge, chancellor, district attorney general, and public defender confidential; makes the application materials submitted by an individual when seeking employment with a governmental entity confidential. - Amends TCA Title 2 and Title 10, Chapter 7.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Ferrell Haile

Bill restricts public access to addresses on judicial nomination petitions and government job applications, limiting transparency in candidate vetting and government hiring.

Pub. Ch. 829
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Bill Summary · SB 1720

Legislative bill overview

SB 1720 makes two categories of public records confidential in Tennessee: addresses listed on nominating petitions for judicial and prosecutorial offices, and application materials submitted by job candidates to government entities. The bill amends public records law to shield this information from public disclosure.

Why is this important

Public records access is fundamental to government transparency and accountability. Nominating petitions and employment applications are typically public to allow scrutiny of candidate qualifications and potential conflicts of interest. This bill narrows public access to information that voters traditionally use to evaluate candidates and could affect transparency in government hiring practices.

Potential points of contention

  • Transparency vs. privacy trade-off: Supporters argue addresses need protection from harassment; critics contend that nominating petition signers' identities are legitimate public information for assessing candidate support and potential conflicts of interest
  • Employment application scope: Making all job application materials confidential could prevent public scrutiny of hiring decisions at government agencies, particularly for sensitive positions like law enforcement or regulatory roles
  • Inconsistency with open government principles: Tennessee's public records laws generally favor disclosure; this represents an expansion of exceptions that opponents may argue sets a concerning precedent

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

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