Tennessee § 20-17-103 - Chapter definitions.
Full text of Tennessee Tennessee Code Annotated § 20-17-103 — Chapter definitions., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 20-17-103. Chapter definitions.
As used in this chapter: “Communication” means the making or submitting of a statement or document in any form or medium, including oral, written, audiovisual, or electronic; “Exercise of the right of association” means exercise of the constitutional right to join together to take collective action on a matter of public concern that falls within the protection of the United States Constitution or the Tennessee Constitution; “Exercise of the right of free speech” means a communication made in connection with a matter of public concern or religious expression that falls within the protection of the United States Constitution or the Tennessee Constitution; “Exercise of the right to petition” means a communication that falls within the protection of the United States Constitution or the Tennessee Constitution and: Is intended to encourage consideration or review of an issue by a federal, state, or local legislative, executive, judicial, or other governmental body; or Is intended to enlist public participation in an effort to effect consideration of an issue by a federal, state, or local legislative, executive, judicial, or other governmental body; “Legal action” means a claim, cause of action, petition, cross-claim, or counterclaim or any request for legal or equitable relief initiated against a private party; “Matter of public concern” includes an issue related to: Health or safety; Environmental, economic, or community well-being; The government; A public official or public figure; A good, product, or service in the marketplace; A literary, musical, artistic, political, theatrical, or audiovisual work; or Any other matter deemed by a court to involve a matter of public concern; and “Party” does not include a governmental entity, agency, or employee. Acts 2019, ch. 185, § 1. Compiler's Notes. Acts 2019, ch. 185, § 2 provided that the act, which enacted this chapter, shall apply to any legal action commenced on or after July 1, 2019. Effective Dates. Acts 2019, ch. 185, § 2. July 1, 2019.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tennessee § 20-17-103
What does Tennessee Code Annotated § 20-17-103 cover?
Section 20-17-103 ("Chapter definitions.") is part of the Tennessee Code Annotated, the codified statutory law of Tennessee. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Tennessee § 20-17-103?
A common citation format is "Tennessee Code Annotated § 20-17-103" (Tennessee). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Tennessee law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Tennessee official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Tennessee attorney.
How does Tennessee § 20-17-103 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Tennessee can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Tennessee.