Tennessee House Bill HB2008

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/24
• Refer: 1/25/24
• Refer: 3/26/24
• Refer: 4/10/24
• Chaptered: 5/13/24
• Passed: 5/13/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 47, Chapter 18 and Title 49, relative to forms of payment accepted at school sporting events.

Impact

The enactment of HB 2008 will require organizers of public school athletic events to accept cash as a form of payment for both admission and purchases at the event. This legislation targets the potential barriers that may exist for students who rely on cash for transactions, which could otherwise discourage their participation in school sports. By mandating cash acceptance, the bill promotes inclusivity at public school athletic events and aligns with the wider objective of ensuring that all students have equal access to extracurricular activities.

Summary

House Bill 2008 seeks to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated by specifically addressing the acceptable forms of payment for admission and purchases at public school athletic events. The bill defines key terms such as 'organizer' and 'public school' to clarify the roles and responsibilities of those involved in organizing such events. The intent is to ensure that all local education agencies (LEAs) and public charter schools can participate without restrictions on cash transactions, thus facilitating easier access for students and attendees who wish to pay cash for admission or concessions.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 2008 appears to be positive, with support from educators and advocates for student access to school sports. They view the bill as a necessary measure to enhance participation in athletic activities by addressing payment accessibility issues. However, there may be some opposition or concern among organizers about the feasibility of managing cash transactions at larger events, as it could complicate operational logistics and financial accountability.

Contention

While there is general consensus on the importance of cash acceptance, notable points of contention include the implications for event management and the potential need for additional measures to ensure safety and accountability with cash handling. Some stakeholders may argue that while the bill promotes access, it also creates new challenges for organizers who must balance cash payments with the risks associated with carrying and managing cash on-site. These challenges may spur ongoing discussions regarding best practices for event operations, particularly in an era where electronic payments are becoming increasingly common.