CANDIDATES RESPOND TO SURVEY





		CANDIDATES RESPOND TO OPEN GOVERNMENT SURVEY On Sept. 22, a five-question survey was mailed to more than 180 candidates for the Tennessee General Assembly, including many who are unopposed in the Nov. 7 general election. The 104^th General Assembly created an 18-member study committee of lawmakers, citizens and news media professionals to look at whether the state’s open government laws need to be changed and perhaps improved. The survey sought ideas to improve Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws. Some of the information gathered in the survey will be provided to the committee, which held its first meeting on Monday, Oct. 16. All candidates were asked to respond by Oct. 11. Below are responses received as of Oct. 17. They are searchable by county, legislative district and by candidate name. Some counties have multiple districts. All candidates were informed their answers would be posted on www.tcog.info. SENATE DISTRICT 1 Cocke, Greene, Hamblen, and Unicoi counties DEMOCRAT DURAN O'BRIAN WILLIAMS COSBY, TN 37722 1. The only way citizens have to ensure compliance with Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws is to file lawsuits. Is that good public policy? “No.” Why? “Lawsuits should not be the only way available to obtain public records. The General Assembly can enact changes in our laws to allow for more open access.” 2. Should Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws be amended to clarify the rights of citizens? “Yes.” Why? “Lawsuits are costly. The meetings are about the peoples’ business and should be easily available.” 3. Do you think the open meetings and public records laws make the duties and responsibilities of public officials and agencies clear? “No.” Why? “Not really. I don’t think the general public has a very clear understanding of the duties and responsibilities of public officials – especially school boards.” 4. Should Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws include penalties for proven violations? “Yes.” What would you suggest? 1^st – written warning. 2^nd – small fine. 3^rd – greater fine. 5. The Tennessee Attorney General has opined that the state Constitution prevents applying the open meetings and public records acts to the General Assembly. Should the laws apply to the legislature within constitutional limits? “Yes.” Why? “Yes, within constitutional limits, but the people elect the members of the General Assembly. The people should have open access to the legislators doing their business.” REPUBLICAN Sen. STEVE SOUTHERLAND 4648 HARBOR DR. MORRISTOWN, TN 37814 SENATE DISTRICT 3 Washington and Carter counties REPUBLICAN Sen. RUSTY CROWE 808 EAST 8TH AVENUE JOHNSON CITY, TN 37601 SENATE DISTRICT 5 Anderson, Loudon, Monroe and part of Knox counties REPUBLICAN Sen. RANDY MCNALLY 94 ROYAL TROON OAK RIDGE, TN 37830 SENATE DISTRICT 7 Part of Knox County REPUBLICAN TIM BURCHETT 8220 BENNINGTON DRIVE KNOXVILLE, TN 37909 SENATE DISTRICT 9 Bradley, McMinn, Meigs, and Polk counties REPUBLICAN Sen.-elect DEWAYNE BUNCH 804 HOLLY RIDGE DRIVE, NW CLEVELAND, TN 37311 SENATE DISTRICT 11 Part of Hamilton County DEMOCRAT JIM HALL 535 CHESTNUT STREET, SUITE 185 CHATTANOOGA, TN 37402 REPUBLICAN Rep. BO WATSON 1607 GUNSTON HALL ROAD HIXSON, TN 37343 SENATE DISTRICT 13 Lincoln, Marshall, Maury and part of Rutherford counties DEMOCRAT VINCE B SPRINGER P.O. BOX 1939 SPRING HILL, TN REPUBLICAN Sen. BILL KETRON MURFREESBORO, TN 37130 1. The only way citizens have to ensure compliance with Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws is to file lawsuits. Is that good public policy? No Why? “We could avoid all of this if we could have passed my two bills on open records and open meetings.” 2. Should Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws be amended to clarify the rights of citizens? Yes. Why? “So there won’t be a question, which in turn requires lawsuits!” 3. Do you think the open meetings and public records laws make the duties and responsibilities of public officials and agencies clear? Yes. Why? “When everything is in the open. There is nothing to hide.” 4. Should Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws include penalties for proven violations? Yes What would you suggest? Let’s see what other states are doing and pick the best practice.” 5. The Tennessee Attorney General has opined that the state Constitution prevents applying the open meetings and public records acts to the General Assembly. Should the laws apply to the legislature within constitutional limits? Yes Why? “Because, we as legislators are the elected officials. We are the leaders that people put their total trust in. Why should we be different?” SENATE DISTRICT 15 Cumberland, Jackson, Overton, Pickett, Putnam, and White Counties DEMOCRAT Sen. CHARLOTTE BURKS 18131 CROSSVILLE HWY. MONTEREY, TN 38574 SENATE DISTRICT 17 Cannon, Clay, DeKalb, Macon, Smith, part of Sumner, Trousdale, and Wilson Counties DEMOCRAT BOB ROCHELLE 109 CASTLE HEIGHTS AVENUE NORTH LEBANON, TN 37087 REPUBLICAN Sen. MAE BEAVERS MT. JULIET, TN 37122 1. The only way citizens have to ensure compliance with Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws is to file lawsuits. Is that good public policy? “No.” Why? “All meetings should be public because legislators are only servants of the people.” 2. Should Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws be amended to clarify the rights of citizens? “Yes.” Why? “Because there are too many closed meetings that citizens should have access to and the law does not apply to the legislature according to the courts.” 3. Do you think the open meetings and public records laws make the duties and responsibilities of public officials and agencies clear? “No.” Why? “Because the courts say the legislature is excluded and they should not be excluded.” 4. Should Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws include penalties for proven violations? “Yes.” What would you suggest? There should be some consequence but I’m not sure what would be appropriate unless it is a fine.” 5. The Tennessee Attorney General has opined that the state Constitution prevents applying the open meetings and public records acts to the General Assembly. Should the laws apply to the legislature within constitutional limits? “Yes.” Why? “Because they should apply to everyone.” SENATE DISTRICT 19 Part of Davidson County DEMOCRAT Sen. THELMA HARPER 2722 SCOVEL STREET NASHVILLE, TN 37208 SENATE DISTRICT 21 Part of Davidson DEMOCRAT Sen. DOUGLAS HENRY 408 WILSONIA AVENUE NASHVILLE, TN 37205 REPUBLICAN BOB KRUMM 4312 ESTES ROAD NASHVILLE, TN 37215 1. The only way citizens have to ensure compliance with Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws is to file lawsuits. Is that good public policy? No. Why? “Lawsuits should never be the first/only approach to solving a problem. Tennessee needs a system in place for reporting/resolving open government disputes.” 2. Should Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws be amended to clarify the rights of citizens? Yes. 3. Do you think the open meetings and public records laws make the duties and responsibilities of public officials and agencies clear? No. Why? “The law doesn’t define adequately when records must be released.” 4. Should Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws include penalties for proven violations? Yes. What would you suggest? “More than the $50 fine currently assessed.” 5. The Tennessee Attorney General has opined that the state Constitution prevents applying the open meetings and public records acts to the General Assembly. Should the laws apply to the legislature within constitutional limits? Yes. Why? “Absolutely! Lawmakers should never be above the laws they make.” SENATE DISTRICT 23 Williamson, and part of Davidson Counties DEMOCRAT MARY PARKER 5113 FOUNTAINHEAD DR BRENTWOOD, TN 37027 REPUBLICAN JACK JOHNSON 5858 CLOVERLAND DRIVE BRENTWOOD, TN 37027 SENATE DISTRICT 25 Dickson, Giles, Hickman, Humphreys, Lawrence, and Lewis counties DEMOCRAT Sen. DOUGLAS S JACKSON 119 TANGLEWOOD DRIVE DICKSON, TN 37055 SENATE DISTRICT 27 Madison, Gibson, and Carroll counties DEMOCRAT LOWE FINNEY JACKSON, TN 38301 1. The only way citizens have to ensure compliance with Tennessee's open meetings and public records laws is to file lawsuits. Is that good public policy? No, because open meetings and records should NOT require (a) the expense and (b) the delays of litigation. 2. Should Tennessee's open meetings and public records laws be amended to clarify the rights of citizens? Yes, because the laws are not as clear as they should be and citizens' rights should be expanded. 3. Do you think the open meetings and public records laws make the duties and responsibilities of public officials and agencies clear? Yes, because clarity would reduce litigation and litigation expenses. 4. Should Tennessee's open meetings and public records laws include penalties for proven violations? Yes. What would you suggest? “I'm open to suggestions and discussion, but the penalties should definitely be strong enough to encourage officials to do right.” 5. The Tennessee Attorney General has opined that the state Constitution prevents applying the open meetings and public records acts to the General Assembly. Should the laws apply to the legislature within constitutional limits? “Yes, because the General Assembly, as much or more than any other officials, should be open in their meetings and records.” REPUBLICAN DON MCLEARY HUMBOLDT, TN 38343 1. The only way citizens have to ensure compliance with Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws is to file lawsuits. Is that good public policy? Yes. Why? “Government of the people, by the people and for the people” is as important today as it was spoken by Lincoln at Gettysburg.” 2. Should Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws be amended to clarify the rights of citizens? Yes. Why? “To protect the rights of citizens.” 3. Do you think the open meetings and public records laws make the duties and responsibilities of public officials and agencies clear? No. Why? “Too many public officials break the sunshine law.” 4. Should Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws include penalties for proven violations? Yes. What would you suggest? “Public reprimand. Fine.” 5. The Tennessee Attorney General has opined that the state Constitution prevents applying the open meetings and public records acts to the General Assembly. Should the laws apply to the legislature within constitutional limits? Yes. Why? “Is right for government to be open and transparent.” SENATE DISTRICT 29 Part of Shelby County DEMOCRAT Sen. OPHELIA E FORD P. O. BOX 462 MEMPHIS, TN 38101 REPUBLICAN TERRY ALLEN ROLAND 1752 LOCKE CUBA MILLINGTON, TN 38053 SENATE DISTRICT 31 Part of Shelby County DEMOCRAT IVON L FAULKNER 7683 ANTIGUA DR MEMPHIS, TN 38119 REPUBLICAN PAUL STANLEY 7511 NESHOBA GERMANTOWN, TN 38138 SENATE DISTRICT 33 Part of Shelby County DEMOCRAT REPUBLICAN MICHAEL FLOYD 3207 GINA DRIVE MEMPHIS, TN 38118 2006 House Candidates HOUSE DISTRICT 1 Part of Sullivan DEMOCRAT KEVIN B SMITH 109 BROADWALK BRISTOL, TN 37620 REPUBLICAN JON LUNDBERG BRISTOL, TN 37620 1. The only way citizens have to ensure compliance with Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws is to file lawsuits. Is that good public policy? “No.” Why? “I agree it’s probably not the best policy – have any suggestions? I believe strongly in government accountability and that is best accomplished in the open.” 2. Should Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws be amended to clarify the rights of citizens? “Yes.” 3. Do you think the open meetings and public records laws make the duties and responsibilities of public officials and agencies clear? “Yes.” 4. Should Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws include penalties for proven violations? “Yes.” 5. The Tennessee Attorney General has opined that the state Constitution prevents applying the open meetings and public records acts to the General Assembly. Should the laws apply to the legislature within constitutional limits? “Yes.” INDEPENDENT JERRY G DYKES 104 LAWSON DRIVE, LOT 5 BLOUNTVILLE, TN 37617 JOHN R HARRISON 641 7TH STREET BRISTOL, TN 37620 HOUSE DISTRICT 2 Part of Sullivan County DEMOCRAT NATHAN VAUGHN 1046 CATAWBA STREET KINGSPORT, TN 37660 HOUSE DISTRICT 3 Johnson and part of Sullivan counties REPUBLICAN JASON E MUMPOWER P. O. BOX 2221 BRISTOL, TN 37621 HOUSE DISTRICT 4 Carter County REPUBLICAN KENT WILLIAMS 284 CAMPBELL RD. BUTLER, TN 37640 HOUSE DISTRICT 5 Unicoi and part of Greene counties REPUBLICAN DAVID B HAWK 407 CROCKETT LANE GREENEVILLE, TN 37745 HOUSE DISTRICT 6 Part of Washington and Hawkins Counties REPUBLICAN DALE FORD 678 BRETHREN CHURCH ST JONESBOROUGH, TN 37659 HOUSE DISTRICT 7 Part of Washington County DEMOCRAT FRED PHILLIPS JONESBOROUGH, TN 37659 1. The only way citizens have to ensure compliance with Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws is to file lawsuits. Is that good public policy? No. Why? “All public records should be open for inspection and review at all times.” 2. Should Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws be amended to clarify the rights of citizens? Yes. Why? “They should be written in a manner that is clearly understood.” 3. Do you think the open meetings and public records laws make the duties and responsibilities of public officials and agencies clear? No. Why? “They are not clear and consistent.” 4. Should Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws include penalties for proven violations? Yes. What would you suggest? “The agency filing the lawsuit, if they are successful, should not be required should not be required to pay for the cost of the cause.” 5. The Tennessee Attorney General has opined that the state Constitution prevents applying the open meetings and public records acts to the General Assembly. Should the laws apply to the legislature within constitutional limits? Yes. REPUBLICAN Rep. MATTHEW HILL P.O. BOX 322 JONESBOROUGH, TN 37659 HOUSE DISTRICT 8 Parts of Blount and Sevier counties REPUBLICAN Rep. JOE MCCORD 4504 MONTVALE ROAD MARYVILLE, TN 37803 HOUSE DISTRICT 9 Hancock and part of Hawkins counties DEMOCRAT LEWIS HOPKINS, JR. 607 GARY HOPKINS DRIVE SNEEDVILLE, TN 37869 REPUBLICAN MICHAEL HARRISON 115 GREEN ACRES DR ROGERSVILLE, TN 37857 HOUSE DISTRICT 10 Hamblen County DEMOCRAT Rep. JOHN H LITZ 1255 MAYES ROAD MORRISTOWN, TN 37813 HOUSE DISTRICT 11 Cocke and part of Greene counties DEMOCRAT Rep. EDDIE YOKLEY 1046 OLD KENTUCKY RD. SOUTH GREENEVILLE, TN 37743 REPUBLICAN CHARLOTTE LEIBROCK 1445 HWY. 73 NEWPORT, TN 37821 HOUSE DISTRICT 12 Part of Sevier County REPUBLICAN RICHARD MONTGOMERY 1582 BROAD RIVER LANE SEVIERVILLE, TN 37876 HOUSE DISTRICT 13 Part of Knox County DEMOCRAT HARRY TINDELL P. O. BOX 27325 KNOXVILLE, TN 37927 REPUBLICAN RANDALL PARKER P. O. BOX 51103 KNOXVILLE, TN 37950 HOUSE DISTRICT 14 Part of Knox County REPUBLICAN PARK (PARKEY) M STRADER KNOXVILLE, TN 37922 1. The only way citizens have to ensure compliance with Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws is to file lawsuits. Is that good public policy? “No.” 2. Should Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws be amended to clarify the rights of citizens? “Yes.” 3. Do you think the open meetings and public records laws make the duties and responsibilities of public officials and agencies clear? “No.” 4. Should Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws include penalties for proven violations? “Yes.” 5. The Tennessee Attorney General has opined that the state Constitution prevents applying the open meetings and public records acts to the General Assembly. Should the laws apply to the legislature within constitutional limits? “Yes.” HOUSE DISTRICT 15 Part of Knox County DEMOCRAT Rep. JOE ARMSTRONG 4708 HILLDALE DRIVE KNOXVILLE, TN 37914 INDEPENDENT PETE DREW 917 S. ANDES ST KNOXVILLE, TN 37914 HOUSE DISTRICT 16 Part of Knox County REPUBLICAN Rep. BILL DUNN KNOXVILLE, TN 37918 “My record demonstrates that I am for open and accountable government. I am willing to close loopholes and strengthen laws to prevent abuses that are occurring.” HOUSE DISTRICT 17 Part of Jefferson and Knox Counties REPUBLICAN Rep. FRANK S NICELEY 1023 CREEK ROAD STRAWBERRY PLAINS, TN 37871 HOUSE DISTRICT 18 Part of Knox County DEMOCRAT SCHREE T PETTIGREW 8351 WALKER SPRINGS STREET, SUITE 303 KNOXVILLE, TN 37923 REPUBLICAN Rep. STACEY CAMPFIELD 2011 FLAGLER KNOXVILLE, TN 37912 INDEPENDENT DAVID GARRETT, JR. 8700 KINGSRIDGE DRIVE KNOXVILLE, TN 37923 HOUSE DISTRICT 19 Part of Knox County REPUBLICAN HARRY BROOKS 6600 WASHINGTON PIKE KNOXVILLE, TN 37918 HOUSE DISTRICT 20 Part of Blount County REPUBLICAN Rep. DOUG OVERBEY 1105 N. HERITAGE DR. MARYVILLE, TN 37803 HOUSE DISTRICT 21 Loudon and part of Monroe Counties DEMOCRAT ANN BARKER P.O. BOX 1122 MADISONVILLE, TN 37354 REPUBLICAN JIMMY MATLOCK 190 MATLOCK ROAD LENOIR CITY, TN 37771 HOUSE DISTRICT 22 Meigs, Polk and part of Bradley counties DEMOCRAT CASEY STOKES P. O. BOX 206 GEORGETOWN, TN 37336 REPUBLICAN Rep. ERIC WATSON 185 OLD KINSER RD. CLEVELAND, TN 37323 HOUSE DISTRICT 23 McMinn and part of Monroe counties; Tellico Plains, Rural Vale, Coker Creek REPUBLICAN MIKE BELL 261 COUNTY ROAD 757 RICEVILLE, TN 37370 HOUSE DISTRICT 24 Part of Bradley County REPUBLICAN KEVIN D BROOKS 3267 PRINCETON HILL CIRCLE CLEVELAND, TN 37312 HOUSE DISTRICT 25 Cumberland and part of Bledsoe counties DEMOCRAT ROBERT A SAFDIE 442 HOLLIS LANE CROSSVILLE, TN 38555 REPUBLICAN Rep. ERIC H SWAFFORD P.O. BOX 192 PIKEVILLE, TN 37367 HOUSE DISTRICT 26 Part of Hamilton County REPUBLICAN Rep. GERALD MCCORMICK CHATTANOOGA, TN 37405 1. The only way citizens have to ensure compliance with Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws is to file lawsuits. Is that good public policy? “No.” Why? “ People should be able to see the records…” 2. Should Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws be amended to clarify the rights of citizens? Yes. Why? “See above.” 3. Do you think the open meetings and public records laws make the duties and responsibilities of public officials and agencies clear? “I don’t know, but they should.” 4. Should Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws include penalties for proven violations? “Yes.” What would you suggest? “Mild penalties for minor violations, some of which may be a result of ignorance of the law. Fines for serious violations… Example: Finance Committees meeting in unannounced locations.” 5. The Tennessee Attorney General has opined that the state Constitution prevents applying the open meetings and public records acts to the General Assembly. Should the laws apply to the legislature within constitutional limits? “Yes.” Why? “Unless we are dealing with national security issues, and we rarely do, then almost all records should be public.” HOUSE DISTRICT 27 Part of Hamilton County DEMOCRAT BILL LUSK SIGNAL MTN., TN 37377 1. The only way citizens have to ensure compliance with Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws is to file lawsuits. Is that good policy? No. I believe that all governmental activities should be transparent and information available under provisions of the Freedom of Information Act. Further, I will apply principles of the Sunshine Law when elected to the State Legislature. Meetings with lobbyists and other interested parties will occur only in my office and will be reported on our website with a review of the issues discussed. I will also post a weekly review of the issues pending before the legislature, my votes on any legislation and my reasons for those votes. 2. Should Tennessee's open meetings and public records laws be amended to clarify the rights of citizens? Yes. As noted above, I believe in open government. All citizens should have easy and unrestricted access to government records. Do you think the open meetings and public records laws make the duties and responsibilities of public officials and agencies clear? No. Unless one happens to be an attorney. These laws should be written in clear and concise terms or an easy to read summary of the salient points should be provided. Should Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws include penalties for proven violations? Yes. Violations should be prosecuted expediently and to the fullest extent of the law and classed as felonies where appropriate. The Tennessee Attorney General has opined that the state Constitution prevents applying the open meetings and public records acts to the General Assembly. Should the laws apply to the legislature within Constitutional limits? Yes. I fully support the findings of the Citizens Advisory Group on Ethics in Government. In keeping with their findings, these acts should have application to all elected officials and should include an independent ethics commission to aid in the enforcement process. REPUBLICAN RICHARD L FLOYD 306 ALTOONA DRIVE CHATTANOOGA, TN 37415 HOUSE DISTRICT 28 Part of Hamilton County DEMOCRAT Rep. TOMMIE BROWN 603 NORTH HIGHLAND PARK AVENUE CHATTANOOGA, TN 37404 INDEPENDENT ISAAC ROBINSON, III 2410 IVY STREET CHATTANOOGA, TN 37404 HOUSE DISTRICT 29 Part of Hamilton County DEMOCRAT Rep. JOANNE FAVORS 2441 MEADE CIRCLE CHATTANOOGA, TN 37406 HOUSE DISTRICT 30 Part of Hamilton County REPUBLICAN Rep. VINCE DEAN 1633 JOHN ROSS ROAD CHATTANOOGA, TN 37412 HOUSE DISTRICT 31 North Hamilton and Rhea Counties DEMOCRAT J. GLENN MOSELEY 289 CHURCH STREET GRAYSVILLE, TN 37338 RETURNED BY THE POSTAL SERVICE AS UNDELIVERABLE REPUBLICAN JAMES B COBB 169 EAST RIDGE ROAD SPRING CITY, TN 37381 HOUSE DISTRICT 32 Roane and part of Loudon Counties DEMOCRAT Rep. DENNIS FERGUSON 2851 ROANE ST. HWY. HARRIMAN, TN 37748 HOUSE DISTRICT 33 Part of Anderson County DEMOCRAT Rep. JIM HACKWORTH THREE ROCKY TOP CLINTON, TN 37716 REPUBLICAN DAVID MASSENGILL CLINTON, TN 37716 1. The only way citizens have to ensure compliance with Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws is to file lawsuits. Is that good public policy? “ No.” 2. Should Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws be amended to clarify the rights of citizens? “Yes.” Why? “Government is a function & right of the people & their rights should be explicitly noted in Tennessee’s open meeting and public records law.” 3. Do you think the open meetings and public records laws make the duties and responsibilities of public officials and agencies clear? “No.” 4. Should Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws include penalties for proven violations? “Yes.” What would you suggest? “A written warning followed by a fine upon second violation.” 5. The Tennessee Attorney General has opined that the state Constitution prevents applying the open meetings and public records acts to the General Assembly. Should the laws apply to the legislature within constitutional limits? “Yes.” Why? “All General Assembly meetings should be open to public, along with open documentation of what occurred at each General Assembly meeting.” HOUSE DISTRICT 34 Part of Rutherford County DEMOCRAT MARY ESTHER BELL 135 SUGAR CREEK LANE SMYRNA, TN 37167 REPUBLICAN Rep. DONNA ROWLAND 5858 FRANKLIN ROAD MURFREESBORO, TN 37128 HOUSE DISTRICT 35 Claiborne, Grainger and part of Jefferson counties REPUBLICAN Rep. DENNIS (COACH) ROACH 4519 HIGHWAY 92 RUTLEDGE, TN 37861 INDEPENDENT EDWARD (ED) BALDWIN HARROGATE, TN 37752 1. The only way citizens have to ensure compliance with Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws is to file lawsuits. Is that good public policy? “No.” Why? “Public involvement and communication with officials is better than litigation.” 2. Should Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws be amended to clarify the rights of citizens? No response—“Not enough info.” 3. Do you think the open meetings and public records laws make the duties and responsibilities of public officials and agencies clear? “No.” Why? “Have heard local officials express confusion.” 4. Should Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws include penalties for proven violations? “Yes.” What would you suggest? “Withhold some state money for that organization as a fine.” 5. The Tennessee Attorney General has opined that the state Constitution prevents applying the open meetings and public records acts to the General Assembly. Should the laws apply to the legislature within constitutional limits? “Yes.” Why? “Obvious.” HOUSE DISTRICT 36 Campbell and Union County DEMOCRAT GARY SEALE 410 S. 25TH STREET LAFOLLETTE, TN 37766 REPUBLICAN Rep. WILLIAM BAIRD JACKSBORO, TN 37757 1. The only way citizens have to ensure compliance with Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws is to file lawsuits. Is that good public policy? “No.” 2. Should Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws be amended to clarify the rights of citizens? “Yes.” 3. Do you think the open meetings and public records laws make the duties and responsibilities of public officials and agencies clear? “Yes.” 4. Should Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws include penalties for proven violations? “Yes/” 5. The Tennessee Attorney General has opined that the state Constitution prevents applying the open meetings and public records acts to the General Assembly. Should the laws apply to the legislature within constitutional limits? “Yes/” HOUSE DISTRICT 37 Sequatchie, Van Buren, Grundy, and Marion counties DEMOCRAT Rep. BILL W HARMON 107 HARMON DRIVE NORTH DUNLAP, TN 37327 REPUBLICAN IVA MICHELLE RUSSELL P. O. BOX 676 MONTEAGLE, TN 37356 HOUSE DISTRICT 38 Clay, Jackson, Pickett, Scott and parts of Anderson counties DEMOCRAT Rep. LESLIE WINNINGHAM HELENWOOD, TN 37756 1. The only way citizens have to ensure compliance with Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws is to file lawsuits. Is that good public policy? No. Why? “Law should be followed.” 2. Should Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws be amended to clarify the rights of citizens? Yes 3. Do you think the open meetings and public records laws make the duties and responsibilities of public officials and agencies clear? Yes. 4. Should Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws include penalties for proven violations? Yes. 5. The Tennessee Attorney General has opined that the state Constitution prevents applying the open meetings and public records acts to the General Assembly. Should the laws apply to the legislature within constitutional limits? Yes. INDEPENDENT CHAMP E LANGFORD 750 CLIFTON RICH ROAD CELINA, TN 38551 HOUSE DISTRICT 39 Franklin, Moore, and part of Lincoln counties DEMOCRAT Rep. GEORGE FRALEY 1350 BIBLE CROSSING ROAD WINCHESTER, TN 37398 REPUBLICAN BILL GREEN 101 S. PORTER STREET WINCHESTER, TN 37398 HOUSE DISTRICT 40 DeKalb, Smith, and Macon counties DEMOCRAT Rep. FRANK FORREST BUCK 124 WEST MAIN STREET SMITHVILLE, TN 37166 REPUBLICAN TERRI LYNN WEAVER LANCASTER, TN 38569 1. The only way citizens have to ensure compliance with Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws is to file lawsuits. Is that good public policy? No. Why? “All citizens of Tennessee should have open and unfettered access, during regular business hours, to all public records of the state and its various counties and municipalities, and all meetings should be open to any interested individual or individuals.” 2. Should Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws be amended to clarify the rights of citizens? Yes. Why? “An informed citizen is usually a good citizen. The only way to stay informed is to be allowed unfettered access to public records during normal business hours and to be permitted to attend, and where feasible, to participate in all public meetings.” 3. Do you think the open meetings and public records laws make the duties and responsibilities of public officials and agencies clear? No. Why? “Even trained professionals such as attorneys frequently cannot come to agreement as to the meaning of the words contained in the open meetings and public records laws. The average person, untrained in the law, generally cannot find the answer sought.” 4. Should Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws include penalties for proven violations? Yes. What would you suggest? “I do not know at the present time precisely what the proper remedies should be for violations of the laws in question. However, I would definitely approach the laws with an open mind and would attempt to sufficiently educate myself to the point where I would sincerely hope to be able to make reasonable and informed decisions.” 5. The Tennessee Attorney General has opined that the state Constitution prevents applying the open meetings and public records acts to the General Assembly. Should the laws apply to the legislature within constitutional limits? Yes. Why? “The legislature has too long operated as a “good old boy” network, and too much of its business has been conducted with secrecy. I feel sincerely and strongly that the best electorate is an informed electorate, and I will do my very best to keep the people of Tennessee informed about all proceedings of the legislature.” INDEPENDENT CARL JONES 11183 OLD HWY. 52 WESTMORELAND, TN 37186 HOUSE DISTRICT 41 Fentress, Morgan and Overton counties DEMOCRAT Rep. JOHN MARK WINDLE P. O. BOX 707 LIVINGSTON, TN 38570 HOUSE DISTRICT 42 Part of Putnam County DEMOCRAT HENRY FINCHER 305 EAST SPRING ST. COOKEVILLE, TN 38501 INDEPENDENT ROBERT J CUNNINGHAM COOKEVILLE, TN 38501 1. The only way citizens have to ensure compliance with Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws is to file lawsuits. Is that good public policy? “No.” Why? “Governor should ensure compliance.” 2. Should Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws be amended to clarify the rights of citizens? “Yes.” Why? “Too confusing for most to understand.” 3. Do you think the open meetings and public records laws make the duties and responsibilities of public officials and agencies clear? “No.” Why? “Too confusing from most to understand.” 4. Should Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws include penalties for proven violations? “Yes.” What would you suggest? Fines. 5. The Tennessee Attorney General has opined that the state Constitution prevents applying the open meetings and public records acts to the General Assembly. Should the laws apply to the legislature within constitutional limits? “Yes.” Why? “General Assembly above all others should be completely open.” INDEPENDENT JOHN G WESTERN 4564 SOUTH CREEK RD. COOKEVILLE, TN 38501 HOUSE DISTRICT 43 White and parts of Putnam and Warren counties DEMOCRAT Rep. CHARLES CURTISS 120 GENERAL JONES ROAD SPARTA, TN 38583 HOUSE DISTRICT 44 Part of Sumner County DEMOCRAT Rep. MIKE MCDONALD 1695 A. B. WADE ROAD PORTLAND, TN 37148 REPUBLICAN TIM COKER PORTLAND, TN 37148 1. The only way citizens have to ensure compliance with Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws is to file lawsuits. Is that good public policy? Yes Why? “It needs to be something that is not too easy to do so the business of the state is not slowed. Also, you wouldn’t want resources spent defending frivolous claims.” 2. Should Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws be amended to clarify the rights of citizens? Yes. Why? “It is too vague to be effectively enforced.” 3. Do you think the open meetings and public records laws make the duties and responsibilities of public officials and agencies clear? No. Why? “They are too vague.” 4. Should Tennessee’s open meetings and public records laws include penalties for proven violations? Yes. What would you suggest? “Voids the business conducted at the meeting.” 5. The Tennessee Attorney General has opined that the state Constitution prevents applying the open meetings and public records acts to the General Assembly. Should the laws apply to the legislature within constitutional limits? Yes. Why? “They should live within the rules they create for others.” HOUSE DISTRICT 45 Part of Sumner DEMOCRAT PATRICK GARDNER HENDERSONVILLE, TN 37075 See my web site: www.patrickgardner.org “I believe ALL government business must be done in clear view of the public.” REPUBLICAN Rep. DEBRA YOUNG MAGGART 112 LA BAR DRIVE HENDERSONVILLE, TN 37075 HOUSE DISTRICT 46 Cannon, Trousdale and part of Wilson counties DEMOCRAT Rep. STRATTON BONE 2455 CARTHAGE HIGHWAY LEBANON, TN 37087 REPUBLICAN JOHN WORLEY 5272 SPARTA PIKE WATERTOWN, TN 37184 HOUSE DISTRICT 47 Coffee and part of Warren counties DEMOCRAT DAVID E CLARK 1645 OLD SHELBYVILLE HWY. TULLAHOMA, TN 37388 REPUBLICAN Rep. JUDD MATHENY 113 CRESTWOOD DRIVE TULLAHOMA, TN 37388 HOUSE DISTRICT 48 Part of Rutherford County DEMOCRAT Rep. JOHN HOOD 402 OLYMPIA PLACE MURFREESBORO, TN REPUBLICAN JOE S CARR 3750 OVERALL ROAD LASCASSAS, TN 37085 HOUSE DISTRICT 49 Part of Rutherford County DEMOCRAT Rep. KENT COLEMAN 14 PUBLIC SQUARE NORTH MURFREESBORO, TN 37130 REPUBLICAN OSCAR D GARDNER