Tennessee House Bill HB0408

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/23
• Refer: 2/1/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 5; Title 6; Title 7; Title 65 and Title 68, relative to utilities.

Impact

The bill empowers the Tennessee Department of Health to set specific temperature thresholds at which energy shutoffs would pose risks to health and safety, mandating that this information be made publicly available. This means utilities will have to adapt their operational protocols in accordance with health guidelines, ensuring that vulnerable populations are protected during severe weather events. Enforcement of these provisions will fall under the purview of the utility management review board and the Tennessee public utility commission, heightening state oversight on utility companies.

Summary

House Bill 0408 aims to amend various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically focusing on regulations surrounding utilities. This bill defines affected entities as those that deliver energy services, such as heating and cooling, to residential properties. A key provision of this legislation is that these entities are prohibited from shutting off energy delivery to residential homes during specific circumstances, particularly when a state of emergency has been declared or during extreme weather conditions deemed hazardous by health officials.

Contention

There may be notable points of contention surrounding this bill, particularly concerning the balance between utility company operations and consumer protection. Utilities might express concerns about the financial implications and logistical challenges that could arise from being unable to suspend service during non-emergency circumstances. Additionally, the criteria established by the Department of Health for temperature regulation could lead to debates regarding the operational thresholds that are acceptable for utility companies versus the health risks of customers in extreme weather situations.