Tennessee Senate Bill SB0628

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/26/23
• Engrossed: 3/16/23
• Enrolled: 4/3/23
• Passed: 4/17/23
• Chaptered: 4/25/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 68 and Title 69, relative to permitting.

Impact

The implementation of SB 628 is set to redefine how construction projects are assessed and permitted in Tennessee. By allowing permit applications to be approved based on the current conditions and proposed activities rather than hypothetical future scenarios, the bill aims to streamline the permitting process. This amendment is expected to offer a more straightforward path for construction projects while potentially reducing bureaucratic delays associated with environmental assessments.

Summary

Senate Bill 628, an act to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, focuses on the issue of construction stormwater permitting. The bill stipulates that the permitting process should be based on the actual activities described in a permit application and the existing conditions at the time of application review. This is a departure from previous regulations where potential future conditions could influence the permitting decisions, thus ensuring that decisions are more relevant and directly tied to the applicants' current situations and proposed activities.

Sentiment

The sentiment among stakeholders regarding SB 628 appears positive, particularly among construction industry proponents who argue that it simplifies and clarifies the permitting process. They view this change as a move towards a more practical and pragmatic approach to infrastructure development. However, there are concerns from environmental advocates who fear that focusing solely on current conditions might overlook broader environmental impacts and lead to negative consequences in the long run.

Contention

Key points of contention surrounding SB 628 revolve around the balance between fostering development and protecting the environment. Critics of the bill are apprehensive that by limiting the scope of considerations to present circumstances, the potential for long-term environmental degradation could increase due to unconsidered future impacts. This highlights an ongoing debate within Tennessee regarding the extent to which regulation should adapt to promote economic growth while still safeguarding environmental integrity.