House Bill 1384, known as the Paystub Protection Act, gained momentum during the Tennessee Commerce Committee meeting on March 5, 2025. The bill aims to ensure that employees receive clear documentation of their earnings and deductions, requiring employers to provide pay stubs within 20 days of the pay date. This legislation is designed to enhance transparency in employee compensation, allowing workers to access necessary documentation for various personal needs, such as applying for loans or housing.

Representative Harris, the bill's sponsor, introduced an amendment that addresses concerns raised in previous discussions, including the timeline for providing pay stubs and clarifying the process for employees to request them. The amendment specifies that if an employee does not receive a pay stub, they can submit a complaint to the Department of Labor, which will then facilitate the employer's compliance.

During the meeting, committee members expressed their support for the bill while also raising questions about its implications for small businesses. Some members voiced concerns that mandating pay stubs could impose additional burdens on employers, particularly those who operate on a smaller scale. However, the committee ultimately voted unanimously in favor of advancing the bill to the calendar and rules for further consideration.

In addition to the Paystub Protection Act, the committee discussed several other bills, including House Bill 1143, which consolidates lists related to clean energy sources, and House Bill 421, which modifies training requirements for utility board members. Both bills passed through the committee without opposition.

The discussions highlighted a commitment to improving worker rights and ensuring that employees have access to essential information regarding their pay, while also balancing the needs of employers. The next steps for House Bill 1384 will involve further scrutiny as it moves through the legislative process.