Tennessee House Bill HB2095

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/24
• Refer: 1/29/24
• Refer: 3/13/24
• Refer: 3/19/24
• Chaptered: 4/17/24
• Passed: 4/17/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 67-3-901, relative to public and environmental infrastructure at marinas.

Impact

The introduction of HB 2095 can have significant implications for state laws related to public funding and environmental infrastructure. By restructuring grant allocation based on fuel sales, the bill intends to incentivize marinas to increase their fuel sales, leading to potential enhancements in the facilities offered to boaters and environmental protections. As the act takes effect on July 1, 2024, it is set to influence how marinas engage with environmental initiatives and manage their operations in alignment with state welfare needs.

Summary

House Bill 2095 aims to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Section 67-3-901, to enhance public and environmental infrastructure at marinas. The bill stipulates that grants awarded to marinas from specific funds must be based on the amount of gasoline sold at those locations. This initiative seeks to promote the sustainability of marina operations while ensuring that a minimum of twenty-five marinas benefit from the grants, thereby bolstering the economic and environmental aspects of these facilities.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 2095 appears to be cautiously optimistic, emphasizing the importance of developing infrastructure that meets environmental standards. Legislators and stakeholders seem to support the bill as it combines environmental responsibility with economic growth for marina operators. Proponents argue that tying grant funding to fuel sales can lead to better-maintained facilities and improved services for the boating community.

Contention

One aspect of contention regarding HB 2095 revolves around how effectively the proposed measures will be implemented and monitored. Critics may point out concerns over the equitable distribution of funds, especially if smaller marinas struggle to compete with larger facilities in fuel sales. Additionally, there is a dialogue about whether the focus on gasoline sales aligns with broader environmental goals, particularly in promoting sustainable practices that may not heavily rely on fossil fuels.