NASHVILLE, TN (WGNS) - A proposal from State Rep. Tim Rudd (R‑Murfreesboro) designed to ensure lawmakers receive accurate information before casting votes, is moving forward at the Tennessee General Assembly. House Bill 1698, known as the Employee Accountability Act, cleared the House Public Service Subcommittee this week and now heads to the State and Local Government Committee on March 24, 2026.

The bill would give committee chairs the authority to require executive branch employees who testify before them to take an oath — making any knowingly false statements subject to perjury penalties. Rudd said the goal is to strengthen trust in the information lawmakers rely on when shaping state policy.

“The legislative process demands accuracy, transparency and integrity,” Rudd said. “The Employee Accountability Act ensures state lawmakers have accurate information before making decisions that can impact all Tennesseans. This proposal is a critical step toward improving government efficiency and building a more prosperous Tennessee.”

The legislation also expands the role of the legislature’s Fiscal Review Committee, which analyzes the financial impact of proposed bills. Under the measure, the committee’s executive director could require executive branch employees to verify that any materials they submit are true and correct. Fiscal Review plays a major role in shaping debates on spending, and Rudd argues that accuracy in those reports is essential.

If an employee knowingly provides false information with the intent to deceive, the act allows the offense to be treated as a Class C misdemeanor. The bill also outlines a process for the speakers of the House and Senate to initiate an investigation into credible allegations. Those findings could then be referred to a district attorney general for further action.

Rudd, who represents District 34 in Rutherford County, has pushed several transparency‑focused measures in recent years. He says this one is about reinforcing the integrity of the legislative process itself.

With the bill now moving to a full committee, lawmakers will continue debating how far the legislature should go in holding executive branch employees accountable for the information they provide. The discussion is expected to draw attention as the March 24 hearing approaches this Tuesday.