Legislation Would Restrict Troopers’ Political Activities 

By Lucas L. Johnson II, Associated Press
State Gazette
May 4, 2006 

            NASHVILLE (AP) – One state senator is hoping to further clean up the embattled Tennessee Highway Patrol with legislation that would prohibit active members of the agency from engaging in certain political activities.

            The bill sponsored by Sen. Mark Norris was unanimously approved Tuesday by the Senate Transportation Committee. The companion bill was deferred until next year in a House sub-committee, but Norris said it could be revived if it passes the Senate.

            Under the legislation, troopers would be prohibited from “running for, or holding, elective office and participating in partisan political activities.”

            The prohibition does not apply when “making contributions, attending political meetings, rallies or conventions when not in uniform.”

            Norris said he tried to incorporate similar legislation into sweeping ethics reform bill law-makers passed in February, but was told he should take it up in committee. He said the legislation is necessary considering the controversy surrounding the THP.

            “I have learned over the last several months that there is a great deal of confusion about what is and is not appropriate,” Said the Collierville Republican, who is chairman of the Senate Transportation Committee.

            Most recently, four THP district captains were demoted and a fifth intends to retire.

            The action follows the resignation of the department’s top three officials in December and appointment of Interim Safety Commissioner Gerald Nicely after media reports of troopers with criminal backgrounds, allegation of ticket-fixing and a culture of cronyism and political arm-twisting.

            Nicely said Tuesday that he doesn’t disagree with Norris’ bill, but wants to make sure troopers aren’t being “treated differently from other employees.”

            “Overall, the intent is something that I agree with,” he said.

            In addition to Norris’ bill, Sen. Rosalind Kurita is considering a resolution that would prohibit troopers from making financial contributions to political campaigns.

            “We know there have been problems,” said the Clarksville Democrat. “And rather than the Legislature be silent, it’s ethical for us to say that we discourage it.”