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Election 2014: TN Constitutional Amendments - What Do They Mean

September 1, 2014

WeThePeople copyYou are probably starting to hear more about the amendments to the state constitution which will be on the ballot this November. We wanted to let you know what the four amendments are, how they will appear on the ballot, and what they mean.

SEIU Local 205 HAS NOT TAKEN OFFICIAL POSITIONS ON THESE AMENDMENTS. This is to make sure you are aware of what the amendments mean in plain terms.

Amendment 1 -What it means:

This allows the State Legislature to make laws to prevent the termination of a pregnancy including situations related to rape, incest, and saving the life of the mother.

Amendment 2—What it means:

This requires all State Supreme Court and Appellate Judges be appointed by the governor and then approved by the State Legislature. Once the first term is completed, voters will chose whether to retain the judges.

Amendment 3—What it means:

It bans any personal income tax on the local or state level in Tennessee.

Amendment 4—What it means:

It bans any other type of lottery in the state unless approved by two-thirds of the State House and Senate. If any other lottery is approved, it must benefit only nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status.