Image Credit: TN General Assembly
The Tennessee Conservative [By Olivia Lupia] –
A bill proclaiming that The World Health Organization, the United Nations, and the World Economic Forum have no jurisdiction in Tennessee has passed both the Senate and House, a productive step in protecting Tennesseans from government overreach like that experienced during the COVID era.
SB0263/HB0318 declares that any political subdivision of the state, including local governments and public corporations, “must not be compelled to enforce, or collaborate with the enforcement of, requirements or mandates issued by the World Health Organization, the United Nations, or the World Economic Forum.”
The legislation further dictates that any requirements or mandates issued by these international organizations, “must not be used in this state as a basis for action, or to direct, order, or otherwise impose, contrary to this state’s constitution and the laws of this state, any requirements whatsoever, including those for masks, vaccines, or medical testing, or to gather public or private information about this state’s citizens or residents, and such requirements or mandates have no force or effect in this state or its political subdivisions.”
SB0263 had a swift visit to the Senate floor as the bill’s sponsor, Sen. Joey Hensley (R-Hohenwald-District 28) introduced the legislation and there was no discussion, leading the body to a prompt vote.
The vote was 25-6, with the “No” votes coming from all six Democrat Senators. Republican Tom Hatcher did not cast a vote, and Ken Yager did not appear to be present for the session.
Things became slightly more contentious on the House floor where HB0318, carried by Rep. Tim Rudd (R-Murfreesboro-District 34), caused Democrat Rep. Gabby Salinas to propose an amendment which would have retitled the bill as “The Anti-Public Health Initiative Bill”.
“I think it’s important that we remember that we belong to each other and that our community health is important, and this bill would have negative consequences on the health of our community. The WHO does not issue mandates, they only issue recommendations, and when we attack health agencies that are set up to promote public health, it really hurts our community, and it devalues these vital organizations. I know that this bill is a dog whistle and it’s talking points for future campaigns, but as a scientist what has worked along the WHO, I think it’s important that we recognize that the WHO does important work and that we trust the scientists that work at the WHO,” Salinas justified.
Rep. Rudd rebutted, “The previous administration attempted to implement some of the policies of these organizations on vaccinations and climate change by policy of departments, and we’re simply stating that unless it’s passed by Congress, it has no jurisdiction here. No foreign governmental entity should have any jurisdiction in the United States or Tennessee without congressional or legislative approval.”
After Rudd’s statement the question was called, to the audible displeasure of House Democrats, ending all further discussion. The final vote was 72-25 in favor, with Republican John Gillespie joining all House Democrats in voting “No”.
Assuming the Governor signs it, the legislation will take effect July 1, 2025.
Olivia Lupia is a political refugee from Colorado who now calls Tennessee home. A proud follower of Christ, she views all political happenings through a Biblical lens and aims to utilize her knowledge and experience to educate and equip others. Olivia is an outspoken conservative who has run for local office, managed campaigns, and been highly involved with state & local GOPs, state legislatures, and other grassroots organizations and movements. Olivia can be reached at olivia@tennesseeconservativenews.com.
