Tennessee House Bill HB0842

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/4/25
• Refer: 2/6/25
• Refer: 3/19/25
• Refer: 4/9/25
• Refer: 4/17/25
• Chaptered: 5/15/25
• Passed: 5/15/25

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 67-4-409, relative to taxes on transfers of realty.

Impact

The bill, slated to take effect on July 1, 2025, has significant implications for state laws pertaining to environmental funding. By establishing the wetland acquisition fund, it provides a dedicated resource for maintaining and enhancing state-owned properties under the jurisdiction of the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. Should the fund exceed $6 million, provisions allow for expenditures on law enforcement personnel salaries, thus positioning the bill as a comprehensive approach to funding wildlife and habitat conservation without compromising local control or property rights.

Summary

House Bill 0842, amended from Senate Bill 843, focuses on taxation related to the transfer of real estate in Tennessee. The bill modifies Section 67-4-409 of the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically establishing parameters for a wetland acquisition fund. The amendment specifies that a portion of the tax collected on realty transfers will be allocated to this fund, aimed at supporting conservation and environmental efforts, particularly related to wetlands. Importantly, it ensures that the fund operates separately from condemnation proceedings and eminent domain powers, thus emphasizing voluntary conservation initiatives over forced acquisitions.

Sentiment

Sentiment surrounding HB 0842 appears largely positive, especially among environmental advocates and conservationists. They view the establishment of a dedicated fund as a critical step toward preserving Tennessee’s natural resources, particularly wetlands, which are vital for biodiversity and flood management. However, some concerns were raised about the long-term sustainability of the fund and the implications of funding decisions made by state authorities over local priorities. This underscores the ongoing tension in balancing environmental management with local governance.

Contention

Notable points of contention hinge on the potential use of the wetland acquisition fund in supporting law enforcement activities, which some critics argue could divert resources from direct conservation efforts to administrative functions. Additionally, the bill highlights a persistent debate between state and local authorities regarding the allocation of environmental funds and the responsibilities of state agencies in managing local conservation issues. Supporters of the bill assert that its provisions are crucial for effective wildlife protection, while opponents urge greater scrutiny of how these funds are utilized.