DAY SIXTY-THREE: Governor Calls on Tennesseans for Feedback on Ethics 

Governor Phil Bredesen today called on Tennesseans to give their feedback on ethics in state government, announcing a variety of new ways for citizens to submit their opinions as the State begins an in-depth review of laws concerning ethics in Tennessee. 

“Solid ethics is essential to good government. It is my fundamental belief that every Tennessean should feel confident that public officials are approaching their jobs with the highest of ethical standards,” Bredesen said. “That’s why getting citizen feedback is essential as we work to strengthen our ethics laws here in Tennessee.” 

Tennesseans interested in submitting their comments, concerns or suggestions may do so in one of three ways: 

• By visiting www.tn.gov and clicking on the “Ethics Comments” link. 
• By calling toll-free, 1-866-442-9025. 
• Or through the mail: Governor’s Office 
  Tennessee State Capitol 
  Nashville, TN 37243-0001 

These new avenues for citizen feedback are a central part of the Governor’s outreach to Tennesseans as the State addresses the issue of ethics in state government. 

Earlier this month, Bredesen appointed a 12-member advisory panel to spend the next 60 days conducting a review of current state laws concerning ethics and to recommend any revisions to be considered in a possible special legislative session focused exclusively on the issue. The group, which will meet regularly across the state over the next several months, will hold its first meeting Friday at the State Capitol. Following tomorrow’s introductory meeting, each subsequent gathering will include a “town hall” segment to further encourage public feedback on the process. 

As the panel is meeting across the state, Governor Bredesen plans to personally visit and talk with Tennesseans in order to hear first hand their thoughts on ethics in state government. 

“I look forward to hearing from both the advisory panel and from citizens all across our state on this important issue,” Bredesen said. “Working together, I’m confident of our success in making state government open and accountable to the people it represents.”