Tennessee House Bill HB0997

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49, relative to higher education.

Impact

The impact of HB0997 is primarily administrative, as it focuses on technical changes to existing law rather than introducing sweeping policy changes. By extending the deadline by two weeks, the bill aims to facilitate better planning and execution of activities within higher education entities. The change is viewed as a practical adjustment that should help institutions comply more effectively without necessitating significant shifts in their operational frameworks. The straightforward nature of the amendment suggests minimal disruption while enhancing predictability for planning purposes.

Summary

House Bill 0997 aims to amend specific sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated relating to higher education, specifically targeting the academic calendar provisions. The principal change proposed in the bill is the modification of deadlines from 'December 1' to 'December 15' for certain regulations, which is intended to provide more leeway for institutions in their planning processes. This amendment is expected to streamline workflow within higher education institutions by aligning the dates with operational needs, allowing for improved efficiency in managing academic schedules and compliance.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB0997 appears to be generally positive, particularly among higher education stakeholders who might benefit from the extended deadlines. The bill is seen as a benign reform that provides necessary adjustments to support institutional needs. Legislative feedback indicates that there is broad support for the change from members of both parties, suggesting consensus on the importance of managing academic calendars effectively within state laws.

Contention

Since the bill primarily makes a straightforward amendment without significant implications for policy or funding, there is limited contention associated with its passage. The discussions around HB0997 focused on its procedural merits rather than deep ideological divides. Any debates that emerged were more likely centered on logistics and practicality rather than face substantial opposition, reflecting a shared recognition of the need for operational efficiency in higher education.