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HB 1446

State Government - As introduced, enacts the "Recognizing Judea and Samaria Act." - Amends TCA Title 3; Title 4 and Title 8.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Chris Todd

Tennessee bill changes state government terminology to recognize territories as "Judea and Samaria," affecting executive, legislative, and judicial code language.

Pub. Ch. 877
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Bill Summary · HB 1446

Legislative bill overview

HB 1446, titled the "Recognizing Judea and Samaria Act," is a Tennessee state bill that amends state government code sections related to terminology and recognition. Based on the title, the bill appears to designate or officially recognize certain territories using the names "Judea and Samaria" rather than alternative designations, affecting state government references in Title 3 (executive branch), Title 4 (legislative branch), and Title 8 (judicial branch) of Tennessee Code.

Why is this important

This bill has geopolitical implications by changing how a state government officially refers to contested territories in the Middle East. Such nomenclature matters because official state recognition can influence diplomatic positions, international relations, and signal political alignment on contentious issues. It represents one state attempting to shape its government's language around a disputed territorial question.

Potential points of contention

  • International law and diplomacy: The terms used carry significant political weight; major international bodies and many governments use different designations, potentially creating conflict with U.S. federal foreign policy
  • State versus federal authority: Questions about whether states should make unilateral declarations on matters traditionally within federal jurisdiction (foreign affairs and diplomacy)
  • Stakeholder perspectives: Palestinians, Israeli governments, the U.S. State Department, and advocacy groups across the political spectrum hold sharply divergent views on appropriate terminology and territorial status

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

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