Tennessee Senate Bill SB1604

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/4/24
• Engrossed: 1/29/24
• Enrolled: 2/6/24
• Passed: 2/21/24
• Chaptered: 3/19/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 3, Chapter 12; Title 4, Chapter 29; Title 4, Chapter 9; Title 36, Chapter 6, Part 2; Title 47; Title 56, Chapter 3, Part 9 and Title 66, Chapter 3, Part 3, relative to the Uniform Law Commission.

Impact

The impact of SB1604 on Tennessee's state laws will potentially reduce the complexity and confusion regarding the commission's role and responsibilities. By clarifying the language used in the statutes, the bill seeks to ensure consistency in the interpretation and application of laws related to uniformity across the state. Additionally, the termination provision may lead to a reevaluation of the commission's function and its necessity within the governmental framework, potentially affecting future legislation and how laws are crafted in Tennessee.

Summary

Senate Bill 1604 aims to amend several sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated concerning the Uniform Law Commission. The proposed changes reflect a reorganization and updating of language related to the commission, specifically substituting 'National Conference of Commissioners on Uniform State Laws' with 'Uniform Law Commission' in various statutory sections. The bill also introduces provisions for the termination of certain governmental entities, specifically stating that entities created during the calendar year 2030, including the Uniform Law Commission, will terminate on June 30, 2032. This aims to streamline the operation and governance structures related to the commission, enhancing legal uniformity within state laws.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB1604 appears supportive, particularly among lawmakers advocating for clearer and more concise legal language in legislation. The adjustments are viewed as necessary updates to maintain alignment with current governing practices. However, there may be concerns regarding the termination of certain governmental entities, which could provoke discussion about the retention of essential oversight bodies within state governance. Overall, the discussions around SB1604 lean towards a desire for improvement in the state's legislative framework.

Contention

While there are no significant points of contention highlighted within discussions surrounding SB1604, the mention of terminating governmental entities created in 2030 raises questions about accountability and governance continuity. If implemented, this could lead to debates about which functions should be preserved and how to ensure effective governance post-termination. Legislators may argue about the potential risks of eliminating certain oversight committees and their relevance in law-making processes.