Tennessee House Bill HB2174

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/24
• Refer: 1/31/24
• Refer: 2/20/24
• Refer: 2/28/24
• Refer: 3/27/24
• Refer: 4/2/24
• Chaptered: 5/9/24
• Passed: 5/9/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 5; Title 6; Title 7; Title 43; Title 53; Title 67 and Title 68, relative to food service establishments.

Impact

If enacted, HB 2174 would specifically alter local governmental authority by prohibiting municipalities and counties from regulating, prohibiting, or restricting food sales by establishments defined under the bill as outside typical food service provider categories. This would shift regulatory power away from local governments and could lead to increased food sales opportunities for specifically categorized businesses, aligning with the state's broader economic development agenda.

Summary

House Bill 2174 proposes amendments to various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated related to food service establishments. The bill primarily seeks to clarify the classification of food service establishments, particularly excluding grocery stores that make infrequent casual sales of uncooked or prepackaged foods. This classification change aims to exempt certain retail establishments from regulations typically applied to food service operations, thus allowing them more flexibility in their food sales while a temporary event is occurring nearby.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 2174 appears to be largely supportive among business owners and advocates who believe the bill will stimulate local economies by easing restrictions on food sales. Conversely, concerns have been raised by some local government officials who fear that this bill undermines their ability to cater regulations to their community needs. The sentiment indicates a clear divide between those prioritizing business interests and those advocating for local governance and autonomy.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB 2174 center around the extent of local control over food regulations. Critics argue that the bill represents state overreach, minimizing the role of local governments in addressing unique community concerns regarding food safety and sales. Proponents maintain that the bill fosters a business-friendly environment that encourages economic growth and simplifies regulations. This debate highlights the ongoing tension between local control and state oversight in regulatory matters.