Tennessee Senate Bill SB1615

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 4, Chapter 29 and Title 59, Chapter 10, relative to the Interstate Mining Compact.

Impact

The impact of SB1615 will be significant in how Tennessee regulates mining activities in conjunction with the Interstate Mining Compact. By terminating entities that may no longer align with current state needs or priorities, the bill aims to enhance efficiency within state governance. However, this also raises questions about the continuity of oversight and potential gaps in regulatory enforcement until newly established entities can take on their responsibilities.

Summary

Senate Bill 1615 is legislation that amends the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically focusing on the Interstate Mining Compact. The bill seeks to terminate certain governmental entities related to the compact effective June 30, 2032. This includes repealing section subdivision (20) of section 4-29-245(a) and establishing a new section that specifies the termination of any commission, board, agency, or council created during the calendar year 2030 by the same date. Through this bill, the Tennessee General Assembly aims to streamline governmental oversight and improve state resource management concerning mining activities.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB1615 appears to be generally supportive among legislators concerned with state efficiency and resource management. With a unanimous vote of 31-0 during its most recent floor vote, the bill indicates strong bipartisan agreement. However, the potential for contention remains, especially if stakeholders in the mining industry or local governments feel the need for a more structured regulatory framework, fearing that the dissolution of existing entities may lead to less oversight.

Contention

Notable points of contention arise from concerns regarding the abrupt termination of established governmental entities and the implications for regulatory continuity. Critics may argue that dismantling these entities could disrupt current mining operations and oversight, which could inadvertently affect environmental standards and community safety. Such foundational changes in law could invoke pushback from entities vested in mining operations and local stakeholders who feel marginalized in discussions affecting their interests.