Tennessee House Bill HB2973

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/8/24
• Refer: 2/15/24
• Refer: 4/16/24
• Engrossed: 4/18/24
• Enrolled: 4/30/24
• Passed: 5/15/24
• Chaptered: 5/20/24

Caption

AN ACT to make appropriations for the purpose of defraying the expenses of the state government for the fiscal years beginning July 1, 2023, and July 1, 2024, in the administration, operation and maintenance of the legislative, executive and judicial branches of the various departments, institutions, offices and agencies of the state; for certain state aid and obligations; for capital outlay, for the service of the public debt, for emergency and contingency; to repeal certain appropriations and any acts inconsistent herewith; to provide provisional continuing appropriations; and to establish certain provisions, limitations and restrictions under which appropriations may be obligated and expended. This act makes appropriations for the purposes described above for the fiscal years beginning July 1, 2023, and July 1, 2024.

Impact

The implications of this bill are significant as it allocates funding across various sectors, including education, healthcare services, and public infrastructure. The changes in appropriations are intended to bolster state support for critical services, such as educational programs and support for vulnerable populations, particularly in health and social services. The funding structure also incorporates continuing appropriations contingent upon the availability of revenues and aims to address any potential shortfalls resulting from federal aid reductions. This multifaceted funding approach is designed to foster resilience in state governance, ensuring uninterrupted service delivery to its citizens.

Summary

House Bill 2973 is an appropriation act designed to fund various government operations and programs in the state for the fiscal years beginning July 1, 2023, and July 1, 2024. It encompasses key areas such as the administration and maintenance of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. The bill aims to ensure that essential state functions continue to operate smoothly while addressing specific areas of public need, including education, healthcare, and infrastructure improvements. By providing necessary funding, HB2973 seeks to maintain public services and support the economy during the fiscal period.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding HB2973 appears to be supportive from those who advocate for steady support of state services and programs. Stakeholders, including educators and public service advocates, expressed a favorable view of the bill, highlighting the importance of continuous funding for public education and social services. Conversely, there are some concerns about the sustainability of the funding model, depending on future revenue projections and potential federal aid fluctuations. This divide in opinion underscores the complexity of balancing fiscal responsibility with the need to ensure that necessary services are adequately funded.

Contention

Notable points of contention arise primarily regarding the dependency on projected revenues and the impact of federal funding changes on state services. Critics are concerned that relying on uncertain federal aid could destabilize essential state programs, leading to budget shortfalls in critical areas such as education and public health. Additionally, the bill’s broad appropriations may face scrutiny regarding efficiency and accountability, prompting discussions about the effectiveness of the proposed funding distribution. The need for transparency in how these funds will be applied and the specific outcomes expected remains a focal point in deliberations surrounding HB2973.