Tennessee House Bill HB2479

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/24
• Refer: 2/1/24
• Refer: 3/12/24
• Refer: 4/9/24
• Chaptered: 5/31/24
• Passed: 5/31/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4, relative to goods produced in Tennessee.

Impact

The implications of HB 2479 extend to how Tennessee manages and regulates goods produced within its borders. By defining 'intrastate commercial goods', the bill declares that these goods, which are grown or produced solely within Tennessee, should not be subject to federal laws unless there's no applicable state regulation. This change is expected to foster a more localized commerce environment, potentially benefiting local businesses by limiting federal regulations that they previously had to navigate.

Summary

House Bill 2479, aimed at amending Tennessee Code Annotated related to goods produced in Tennessee, seeks to define and exempt certain intrastate commercial goods from federal regulation. The bill asserts the state's constitutional authority under the Tenth Amendment, arguing that commercial activities limited to state borders should fall under state jurisdiction rather than federal oversight. With this legislation, the Tennessee General Assembly emphasizes its position on the right to regulate commerce that does not impact interstate trade, thereby rejecting federal authority over such goods.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 2479 is mixed, with advocates viewing it positively as a measure to protect state rights and enhance local commerce, asserting that it guards against federal overreach. However, critics express concerns regarding the bill's potential to create confusion in legal interpretations and its effect on businesses that may benefit from federal oversight. The law's perceived ambiguity leads to apprehension about its practicality and effectiveness in achieving its intended objectives.

Contention

Notable contention arises from the constitutional implications of the bill. Critics argue that the legislation might create legal challenges regarding its alignment with federal laws, potentially leading to conflicts between state and federal jurisdictions. The tension between the bill's assertions about state autonomy in commerce and established federal authority raises important questions about its implementation and could result in uncertainties for Tennessee businesses, particularly surrounding compliance issues.