Tennessee Senate Bill SB1939

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/24/24
• Engrossed: 2/26/24
• Enrolled: 3/20/24
• Passed: 4/4/24
• Chaptered: 4/8/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 58, Chapter 8, relative to the Mutual Aid and Emergency and Disaster Assistance Agreement Act of 2004.

Impact

This legislation amends Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Title 58, Chapter 8, which pertains to emergency management policies. By clarifying the terms related to emergency and disaster situations, SB1939 seeks to streamline processes for requesting and providing mutual aid among governmental entities. This is expected to improve coordination and responsiveness during emergencies, ultimately affecting local and state policies surrounding disaster preparedness and response capabilities.

Summary

SB1939, officially known as an act to amend the Mutual Aid and Emergency and Disaster Assistance Agreement Act of 2004, focuses on enhancing the framework for emergency management within Tennessee. This bill aims to clarify definitions related to emergencies, specifically by substituting terms and adding new definitions that reflect the modern understanding of emergencies and the roles of governmental entities involved in disaster response. One significant change includes the clarification of what constitutes an 'Occurrence' in terms of emergency management, which now encompasses a broader range of potential events and their aftermath.

Sentiment

The sentiment around SB1939 appears to be generally positive, with support from various segments of the legislative body who recognize the need for more robust emergency management frameworks. Advocates argue that these changes will help local governments and agencies respond more efficiently and effectively to emergencies, ultimately protecting the welfare of the public. However, the bill has faced scrutiny regarding the implications of these changes and calls from opposition to ensure that local autonomy in emergency management is preserved.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB1939 include the balance between state standards and local control. Some legislators expressed concerns that while the bill aims to unify emergency management practices, it should not undermine local governments' authority to dictate their own disaster response strategies. The debate emphasizes the importance of maintaining local input in emergency management while also fostering a cooperative and efficient state-level response framework.