This memo discusses the Tennessee Governmental Tort Liability Act (TCA §§ 29-20-101 to -408). The GTLA preserves local governmental entities’ immunity from suit “except as otherwise provided.” The Act contains four parts: (I) General Provisions; (II) Removal of Immunity; (III) Claims Procedure; and (IV) Funding and Insurance.

Eight cities were asked several questions about their administrative hearing officer program.

MTAS was asked how a governing body can cure a violation or alleged violation of the Tennessee Open Meetings Act (TOMA).

A sample ordinance that can be used by any city or town in Tennessee that explains how officials can dispose of unclaimed property.

MTAS was asked to develop a communication tower lease agreement.

MTAS was asked whether a municipal utility board may enter into a franchise agreement with a utility corporation without the city being a party to the agreement.

MTAS was asked whether the city judge (who has concurrent jurisdiction) can issue a state warrant for a person who passes a school bus, upon the affidavit of the school bus driver, who doesn't know who was driving the car and whether a video tape of persons arrested for DUI is admissible at trial of the defendant.

A letter urging compliance with the State Constitution.

Thirteen cities responded to an MTAS survey about their usage of TTY (Text Telephone) or TDD (Telecommunication Device for the Deaf) equipment.

MTAS was asked about the legality of asking personal questions of police applicants when administering polygraph tests.