A short refresher. Harrison ran for Lenoir City judge back in 2022, Harrison does not live in the city. Harrison narrowly won the election. The former city judge sued Harrison for not being eligible to run for the office because he did not live in the city. Ultimately, the Tennessee Supreme Court ruled in McNabb's favor saying that it was unconstitutional for a judge candidate to run for the office of city judge if they do not live in the city. Shortly after the court's ruling, Harrison resigned his position. The court's ruling not only effected the Lenoir City judge, it also effected about another dozen judges across the state.

During this years, Tennessee legislature session, a state representative, Ester Helton Haynes of Hamilton County, offered an amendment to a bill that would allow judges who were effected by the supreme court's ruling to remain in office until the end of their term. At least that's how Greg Harrison interprets the amendment.

Harrison has filed with Chancery Court Judge, Tom McFarland, to ultimately reinstate him to the city judge position, with back pay,  through the end of his original term to 2030. I'm no lawyer, but there seems to be a few problems with Harrison's position. Harrison has requested a hearing for May 29.

The Tennessee Supreme Court clearly ruled that it is unconstitutional for a non resident to be qualified to run for or hold the office of judge in a city where they do not live. The state legislature can not pass laws that are unconstitutional. Secondly, Harrison was not removed by the chancery court. Harrison resigned and the city council accepted his resignation. So, how could a judge put him back in office? Lastly, the amendment that was passed is likely going to be legally questioned for it's unconstitutionality.

I do not know if any Lenoir City officials were involved with the passage of the new law but I know it would make Lenoir City mayor, Tony Aikens, a happy guy if he could get his right hand man back on the judges bench.

The Amendment