Tennessee House Bill HB1123

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/23
• Refer: 2/2/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 7, Chapter 82, relative to utility districts.

Impact

The implication of this bill addresses the legal and operational framework of utility districts in Tennessee. By prohibiting the condemnation of property outside their service areas, the bill changes how utility districts may engage with landowners and the general public when expanding their services. The expectation is that this will limit the disputes over property rights and protection for property owners, particularly those residing just outside the designated utility zones.

Summary

House Bill 1123 proposes an amendment to the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Title 7, Chapter 82, which governs utility districts. The primary aim of the bill is to restrict the powers of these utility districts concerning property condemnation. According to the bill, a utility district shall not have the authority to condemn property that lies outside its designated service area. This amendment seeks to clarify and reinforce the boundaries of utility districts' operational jurisdictions.

Contention

As with many legislative changes, there could be contention around this bill's implementation. Proponents may argue that restricting condemnation powers helps protect individual property rights and ensures that utility districts operate within reasonable boundaries. However, some may contend that this restriction could hinder utility districts' ability to expand necessary services to new areas or adapt to growing demand, thus impacting community development and service accessibility.