I frequently receive inquiries from constituents concerning the application of Tennessee?s ethics law to local government officials.

Tennessee?s ethics law, enacted in 2006, provides rather weak, limited oversight of local government officials. Such officials are required to file disclosure of interest statements with the Tennessee Ethics Commission, but the commission does not enforce certain code violations.

Each year, Tennessee General Assembly members are required to attend a review of the state?s ethics law. I recently wrote the executive director of the Tennessee Ethics Commission, Bruce Androphy, asking him to discuss the commission?s role in overseeing ethical and legal behavior of local government officials, and he has promised to include this topic in this year?s presentation.

I recommend that any interested government official or citizen listen to Mr. Androphy, as he explains what the commission can or cannot do about local government issues.

The presentation before the full state Senate should commence at approximately 10:00 a.m. Eastern time (EST) on Thursday, January 10, 2008.

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