Tennessee House Bill HB2597

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/24
• Refer: 3/13/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4, Chapter 3; Title 9; Title 20; Title 29; Title 33; Title 47; Title 53; Title 67, Chapter 4; Title 68 and Title 71, relative to the disbursement of monies.

Impact

The implementation of HB2597 is expected to enhance accountability regarding the state's financial dealings related to opioid abatement. By enforcing a structured reporting system, the bill aims at providing clearer oversight of fund allocation and the effectiveness of abatement strategies. This is crucial for assessing how well the state is addressing the ongoing opioid epidemic and ensuring that funds are used effectively and efficiently.

Summary

House Bill 2597 addresses the management and disbursement of funds related to the opioid abatement efforts in Tennessee. The bill mandates that the council responsible for opioid abatement must prepare an annual report detailing financial activities pertaining to the opioid abatement fund. This report is to be submitted to several key legislative leaders, including the governor and the chairs of related committees, by September 15 each year. The intent is to ensure transparency in how funds are being utilized to combat the opioid crisis.

Contention

While the bill appears to be a step towards better governance in handling opioid crisis funds, discussions around it could involve concerns about oversight and bureaucratic processes. Stakeholders may debate whether the required reporting is sufficient in addressing the complexities of opioid abatement or whether more stringent oversight is needed. The focus on transparency is generally welcomed, but it raises questions about the balance between accountability and administrative burden for the agencies involved.