Tennessee House Bill HB0224

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/13/23
• Refer: 1/21/23
• Refer: 2/6/23
• Chaptered: 3/23/23
• Passed: 3/23/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4, Chapter 29 and Title 69, Chapter 3, relative to the Tennessee board of water quality, oil, and gas.

Impact

The passing of HB 0224 would have specific ramifications on state regulations related to water quality and the management of oil and gas resources. By restructuring the provisions under which the Tennessee board operates, the bill seeks to enhance the efficiency of regulatory processes while ensuring that environmental protections are maintained. This aligns with broader goals of maintaining sustainable practices in resource management across the state.

Summary

House Bill 0224 aims to amend sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated concerning the Tennessee board of water quality, oil, and gas. The proposed amendments include the removal of certain subdivisions from Section 4-29-244 and the addition of new content to Section 4-29-249. This bill is designed to streamline the state's regulatory framework governing water quality and oil and gas management, ensuring compliance with updated environmental standards.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding the bill appears to be largely positive, with strong support for the need to modernize and improve the efficacy of the regulatory framework. Lawmakers and stakeholders involved in the discussions have expressed that such reforms are necessary for the state to remain competitive while also protecting its natural resources. However, there are underlying concerns regarding the potential implications of regulatory change, particularly among environmental advocacy groups who may be wary of the effects on substance and enforcement.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the balance between efficient regulation and the safeguarding of environmental standards. Critics of changes to the regulatory structure may raise concerns that the amendments could lead to less rigorous scrutiny over water quality and oil and gas operations. Proponents counter this by emphasizing the need for a more coherent and less cumbersome regulatory environment that can adapt to modern challenges without compromising environmental integrity.