Tennessee Senate Bill SB1848

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 3; Title 4; Title 5; Title 6; Title 7; Title 8; Title 9; Title 10; Title 11; Title 12; Title 13; Title 16; Title 17; Title 18; Title 29; Title 33; Title 36; Title 37; Title 38; Title 39; Title 40; Title 41; Title 42; Title 43; Title 44; Title 45; Title 47; Title 48; Title 49; Title 50; Title 53; Title 54; Title 55; Title 56; Title 57; Title 58; Title 59; Title 60; Title 61; Title 62; Title 63; Title 64; Title 65; Title 66; Title 67; Title 68; Title 69; Title 70 and Title 71, relative to statutory revisions required for implementation of the annual appropriations act.

Impact

The implications of SB1848 are anticipated to be substantial, affecting how grant payments are administered within Tennessee. The changes to grant payment procedures might alter the landscape of funding for various state programs and could enhance the transparency and accountability of disbursal practices. Furthermore, by directly empowering individuals to receive payments, the bill may streamline processes for state-funded assistance programs, potentially improving the efficiency of welfare distribution. Additionally, the bill establishes July 1, 2024, as the effective date for these changes, indicating a planned transition period for implementing the new procedures.

Summary

Senate Bill 1848 aims to amend various titles within the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically to facilitate statutory revisions necessary for implementing the annual appropriations act. This bill is significant as it addresses a large number of titles within the code, indicating a comprehensive approach to legal revision. By overhauling these sections, it seeks to streamline the state’s statutory framework concerning fiscal management and disbursement, particularly focusing on grant payment structures. The bill outlines that grant payments will henceforth be issued to individuals directly, rather than entities such as nursing homes, which reflects a move toward ensuring that financial assistance reaches the intended recipients directly.

Contention

While the bill generally appears to have support for its intent to revise and clarify statutory language, there may be challenges regarding how effectively the new payment structure serves all constituents. Stakeholders, particularly organizations involved in social services, might voice concerns about the operational implications of this direct payment model. They may worry about the potential burden placed on individuals who may lack the resources or knowledge to manage these funds effectively. Furthermore, depending on the eventual discussions in committee or on the floor, additional amendments or refinements may arise to ensure that vulnerable populations are adequately supported throughout the transition.