In 2024, the Tennessee General Assembly took a significant step in addressing the unique challenges faced by Tennessee’s public safety officers who are part of the Tennessee Consolidated Retirement System (TCRS) by unanimously passing House Bill 2683, now codified as Public Chapter 919. This legislation marks a pivotal moment in the state's approach to the retirement benefits of its law enforcement officers, firefighters, and correctional officers; individuals who dedicate their careers to protecting public safety and maintaining order. Recognizing the inherent risks and responsibilities associated with these roles, the General Assembly introduced the “hazardous duty supplemental benefit,” a new optional provision designed to offer enhanced financial security to those who retire after years of service in these demanding and often dangerous public safety positions.

Public Chapter 919 is not just a routine amendment to the retirement system; it represents both a deliberate and thoughtful effort to acknowledge the sacrifices made by public safety officers. By implementing this law, Tennessee joins a growing number of states that are reevaluating the retirement benefits offered to public safety individuals serving in high-risk professions. This enhancement ensures that public safety employees’ retirement compensation reflects the hazardous nature of their duties.

MTAS was asked whether municipalities are entitled to levy severance taxes.

MTAS was asked to conduct a comprehensive fire study of the LaVergne Fire Department.

MTAS was asksed two questions relative to court cost and the implications for the word "permanent" employee in a personnel policy.

MTAS was asked for whom the City Attorney works and if the City Attorney may be fired.

The Jan. 1, 1996, federal deadline is approaching to institute drug and alcohol testing for cities with fewer than 50 employees who are required to have commercial drivers' licenses (CDLs).

Job description for the position of Traffic Engineer.

MTAS explained that the decision to require a mail ballot only, or to leave voting requirements unchanged, is a policy decision that rests exclusively with the Board of Mayor and Aldermen.

MTAS was asked to provide sample application rejection letters.