Criminal Offenses - As introduced, prohibits a person who is convicted of a felony from running for public office, regardless of whether the person receives a presidential pardon; prohibits a public employee from receiving retirement benefits from the Tennessee consolidated retirement system, any superseded retirement system, or any other public pension system, if such employee or official is convicted of a felony. - Amends TCA Title 2; Title 8; Title 39 and Title 40.

HB 1829 prohibits individuals convicted of a felony from running for public office in Tennessee, even if they receive a presidential pardon. It also bars public employees or officials convicted of a felony from receiving retirement benefits from any state pension system. The bill removes exceptions that previously allowed eligibility for office or retirement benefits if a felony was unrelated to official duties or if a pardon was granted. These changes apply to felony convictions occurring on or after July 1, 2026.