AN ACT relative to agency rules scheduled to expire pursuant to the provisions of the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act, compiled in Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4, Chapter 5.
The bill has significant implications for state regulatory frameworks, as it delays the expiration of established rules and provides continuity for agencies and stakeholders relying on these regulations. By preventing the abrupt expiration of rules, SB0068 aids in maintaining operational consistency for various government agencies and the entities they regulate. This measure is particularly critical in sectors where regulations govern safety, health, and environmental standards, allowing for a smoother transition and gradual adaptation to any future changes.
Senate Bill No. 68, also known as SB0068, is an act concerning agency rules that are scheduled to expire under the provisions of the Uniform Administrative Procedures Act (UAPA) in Tennessee. This bill mandates that all permanent rules filed after January 1, 2022, and set to expire on June 30, 2023, will remain effective until they are either repealed, amended, or replaced by new legislative enactments. The intention behind this legislation is to ensure stability in administrative rules until a comprehensive review or legislative action occurs, thereby reducing the disruptions caused by rule expirations.
The general sentiment surrounding SB0068 appears to be supportive among legislative members, as evidenced by its unanimous passage in the Senate, where it received 93 votes in favor and none against during its third consideration. The consensus indicates a recognition of the importance of stable administrative rules and the need to protect against regulatory uncertainty during legislative transitions. Stakeholders in state governance likely view the bill positively, as it fosters an environment conducive to long-term planning and compliance.
While SB0068 passed without opposition, the broader discussion around rule expiration within administrative law can be contentious. Critics may argue about the potential for bureaucratic inertia or the delay in necessary updates to regulations that could become outdated or counterproductive over time. However, the bill’s current trajectory shows a legislative intent to ensure that necessary rules remain in effect while addressing the proper legislative processes for future amendments.