Tennessee Human Rights Commission changes likely after state investigation

Lawmakers passed a bill to revamp the Tennessee Human Rights Commission after the commission’s director retired earlier this year under allegations of verbal abuse and harsh treatment of employees.

In February, Human Rights Commission executive director Beverly Watts stepped down following a state investigation which found she created a toxic work environment through profanity, demeaning language and micromanaging to the point that she required front desk employees to email leadership for permission to use the restroom.

Watts has denied all the allegations. “I am deeply disappointed in the untrue accusations that have been made against me,” Watts said during her retirement announcement.

“I have always tried to lead this organization with dignity and professionalism.”

The bill, sponsored by Rep. Chris Todd, R-madison County, and Sen. Mike Bell, R-riceville, resets the commission’s board, making all their terms expire later this year.

The legislation doesn’t disband the board but gives the governor, Speaker of the House and Speaker of the Senate the ability to appoint three new members each starting September 1.

Todd told The Tennessean the board either was oblivious of Watts’ actions as executive director or knew about them and did nothing.

“The goal of this bill is to put in some guardrails,” Todd said.

The Tennessee Human Rights Commission is in charge of enforcing the state’s anti-discrimination laws. The commission’s job is to investigate complaints of discrimination in housing, employment, and public accommodation based on race, nationality, religion, sex, disability, familial status and age.

At least three people filed complaints against Watts. Several former employees for the human rights commission spoke to The Tennessean about Watts, backing up many of the allegations confirmed in the human resources report.

Democrats criticized the bill as a personal vendetta by Todd, who has voiced concerns about the board’s actions for years.

The bill passed the Senate overwhelmingly, but ran into Democratic opposition in the House. The House passed the legislation by a near partyline vote of 67-28.

The legislation, filed under HB2877, now awaits Gov. Bill Lee’s signature before becoming law.

Reach Adam Friedman by email at afriedman@tennessean.com.