Tennessee Senate Bill SB0126

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/23
• Engrossed: 2/23/23
• Enrolled: 3/14/23
• Passed: 3/31/23
• Chaptered: 4/18/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 68, Chapter 211, Part 8, relative to solid waste.

Impact

The bill's amendments will enable more counties to be included under the operational regulations concerning solid waste. This change aims to streamline waste management practices and improve compliance with updated population figures. Understanding the solid waste management needs of these counties is crucial for effective planning and resource allocation, particularly as urban population centers often face distinct challenges associated with waste disposal and recycling programs.

Summary

Senate Bill 126 aims to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Title 68, Chapter 211, Part 8, relating to solid waste management. The bill updates the population parameters used in regulating certain aspects of solid waste to include counties with a population range between 16,200 and 16,300, as determined by the 2020 federal census or any subsequent federal census. This adjustment seeks to ensure that the law remains relevant and reflective of current demographic data, allowing for more accurate waste management strategies in accordance with modern population dynamics.

Sentiment

General sentiment around SB 126 appears to be positive, given the unanimous support in the voting results, where it passed with 95 yeas and no nays. The overwhelming support suggests that legislators are in agreement on the necessity of keeping the solid waste regulations aligned with current population estimates, thus reflecting a collaborative approach towards environmental management and accommodating population growth.

Contention

While there does not appear to be significant contention surrounding SB 126, discussions could evolve as the impacts of the bill are realized in the future, particularly in terms of how broader regions of Tennessee adapt to these new regulatory frameworks. Legislative attention may return to solid waste management in light of evolving population demographics and the associated demand on waste management services, signaling that while the passage was smooth, ongoing evaluations will be necessary.