Tennessee House Bill HB2767

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Refer: 2/5/24
• Refer: 3/5/24
• Refer: 3/27/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8, Chapter 42 and Title 9, Chapter 8, relative to state employees.

Impact

The amendment is anticipated to have significant implications for state laws regarding public employment and benefits, particularly as it relates to conservation efforts. By officially designating soil and water conservation district members as state employees, the bill facilitates access to various state resources, assistance programs, and legal protections. This change in classification can enhance the operational frameworks within conservation districts and may lead to increased efficiency in addressing environmental issues and resource management.

Summary

House Bill 2767 aims to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated in relation to the classification of certain individuals as state employees. Specifically, the bill proposes to include members of soil and water conservation districts—along with their respective officers, employees, and agents—as state employees under Title 8, Chapter 42. This classification enables these individuals to be covered under specific provisions that apply to state employees, thus extending certain rights and privileges to them as part of the bill's broader framework.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 2767 appears generally supportive among conservation advocates and related stakeholders, who see this designation as a positive recognition of the important roles played by soil and water conservation districts. By aligning these conservation efforts with state employee benefits, proponents argue that it will improve recruitment and retention of qualified personnel within the districts. However, there may also be caution from fiscal conservatives concerned about the potential financial implications of expanding state employee definitions.

Contention

While the bill is largely favorable among pro-environment factions, some may raise concerns regarding the administrative and budgetary impacts this designation may entail. Critics might argue that expanding the scope of state employees could lead to increased payroll obligations and higher expectations for state funding and support. The balance between enhancing conservation efforts and managing state resources effectively is likely to be a point of discussion as the bill progresses.