Tennessee House Bill HB2584

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/24
• Refer: 2/5/24
• Refer: 2/27/24
• Refer: 3/6/24
• Refer: 4/17/24
• Chaptered: 5/13/24
• Passed: 5/13/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 5; Title 6; Title 7; Title 68 and Title 69, relative to water quality control.

Impact

The implications of HB 2584 on state laws are significant as it modifies existing regulations regarding how local governments can operate concerning water quality permits. By removing financial burdens associated with permit applications for emergency repairs, the bill enables local authorities to act promptly without the added concern of permit fees. This modification could lead to faster restoration of essential infrastructure and potentially improved overall water management in emergency situations.

Summary

House Bill 2584, seeking to amend parts of Tennessee Code Annotated, primarily addresses water quality control and the regulation of permit application fees for local government entities. Specifically, the bill eliminates the requirement for local governments to pay permit application fees for general aquatic resource alteration permits needed for emergency infrastructure repairs or maintenance activities related to culverts. The introduction of this bill signifies an intent to facilitate easier access to necessary permits for local governments, especially in urgent situations, thereby promoting timely infrastructure repairs.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 2584 appears to be largely positive, particularly among proponents who see this change as a necessary support for local governments. Many advocates argue that it enhances the ability of local entities to respond to infrastructural needs without the additional constraint of fee payments. However, as with most legislative changes, there's potential for contention among those more critical of state-controlled responses to local environmental issues.

Contention

While the overall response to HB 2584 is favorable, there might be concerns raised regarding the potential for lax oversight of aquatic resource management by local governments. Some critics may argue that eliminating fees could lead to over-exploitation of aquatic resources without the necessary safeguards that permit fees might promote. As it stands, the focus on emergency infrastructure could create tension between immediate local needs and rigorous long-term aquatic resource management.