The Tennessee State Employees Association is a non-profit Association that represents the interests and rights of state employee members. TSEA is one of the largest independent state employee organizations in the nation, and one of the most successful at improving salaries, rights and benefits of state employees. TSEA is a unified group of active and retired state employees from all branches of state government working together toward the goals of better working conditions and improved state services. Governed by a 19-member board of directors elected by its membership, the Association determines initiatives and goals each year at the annual Representative Assembly. Members are also actively involved at the local level through 47 chapters across the state. Members are involved in the political process through the Association's political action committee, the Tennessee Employees Action Movement (TEAM). TEAM endorses candidates in gubernatorial and state legislative races, and provides financial and volunteer support in the races of candidates who have worked with the Association to address the concerns of employees. TSEA is a recognized voice for state employees on Capitol Hill. The Association’s lobbying efforts during each legislative session have made a significant difference by achieving many improvements in employees' pay, rights and benefits. TSEA is a powerful advocate for its members. The Association's employee rights staff provides advice, assistance and representation to members regarding job-related problems, assists members with grievances and other situations where rights have been threatened or violated.