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Understanding Code
​The Tennessee Code Annotated (TCA) encompasses all Tennessee laws, organized by three key elements: Title, Chapter, and Part. Each of these elements offers a more precise identification of the law. For example, TCA 2-1-103 is broken down into Title 2, Chapter 1, Part 103. Title 2 pertains to election laws, Chapter 1 deals with [specific subject of the chapter], and Part 103 addresses [specific subject of the part]. Thus, TCA 2-1-103 specifically pertains to the law governing [specific topic].
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How to Surf Code
​To locate a specific law, it's most effective to first identify the relevant title associated with your topic. If you're unsure of the title number, you can use the "keyword" search feature available on the free public access version of the TCA.
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Annotated Code vs. Unannotated Code
Annotated versions of the Tennessee Code are available for purchase online. These annotated versions include footnotes with additional information, such as the history of the code's passage, dates of amendments, and relevant court opinions and rulings. In contrast, the free public access version of the TCA is unannotated.
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Laws vs. Rules
Laws are enacted by the Tennessee General Assembly, but various departments are also empowered to create rules and regulations that have the force and effect of law. While these departments fall under the executive branch, many of their rules must be reviewed and approved by the Government Operations Committee in the legislative branch. The Government Operations Committee meets year-round. You can find the members of the committee [here].