New Legislation Aims to Enhance Election Integrity in Tennessee

State Senator Joey Hensley has announced the approval of new legislation aimed at enhancing election integrity and voting measures for the upcoming 2026 session in Tennessee. This legislation includes several key proposals designed to strengthen the electoral process in the state.

Among the approved measures is a proposed amendment requiring individuals to be U.S. citizens in order to vote. This requirement is paired with a mandate to use the federal Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) system to verify citizenship status. Additionally, the legislation introduces a ban on private funding of elections, ensuring that election financing remains transparent and accountable. It also safeguards the confidentiality of judicial candidates’ home addresses on petitions, thereby protecting their privacy.

Other notable provisions within the legislation include requirements for disclosures regarding political advertisements generated by artificial intelligence (AI) and the use of deepfake content. These measures aim to promote transparency in political advertising and combat misinformation. Furthermore, there are proposed amendments concerning residency requirements for judicial candidates, clarifying the qualifications necessary for those running for judicial office. A suggested change in election dates for judicial and civil officers could also impact the scheduling of future elections.

It is important to note that these proposals must pass again in the next General Assembly to be included on the ballot for the 2030 elections. However, the announcement did not specify any deadlines for these proposals, nor did it provide details regarding filing requirements or associated fees.


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