This legislative week includes action in two states concerning bills about election integrity and parental rights.
On Tuesday, April 2, the Tennessee House Committee on Civil Justice is scheduled to convene a hearing regarding HB 2936, the "Families' Rights and Responsibilities Act."
The "Families' Rights and Responsibilities Act" codifies the right of parents to oversee the education and physical and mental health of their children as exclusive, and emphasizes the fundamental concept of self-governance -- consent. It also permits parental involvement in school organizations and associations that are sanctioned by boards of education in the state.
The bill is sponsored by state representative Jeremy Faison. The committee hearing begins at 11:00 a.m. CT on Tuesday.
In Louisiana, the House of Representatives is expected to take a floor vote about election integrity legislation supported by COSA, HB 763, formerly known as HB 90. It was introduced by state representative Beau Beaullieu.
The legislation concerns federal interference with state elections and guidance for state officials.
In part, the legislation prohibits Louisiana election officials from implementing directives issued by the federal government and accepting federal funds without explicit state or federal law that requires any such action.
Absent such laws, Louisiana election officials who do receive directives must request approval from both the House and Senate committees on governmental affairs or -- in the case of the disbursement of federal funds -- the Joint Legislative Committee on the Budget.
The floor vote for HB 763 is expected to take place on April 2.
