Tennessee Senate Bill SB2393

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4, Chapter 3; Title 9; Title 20; Title 29; Title 33; Title 47; Title 53; Title 67, Chapter 4; Title 68 and Title 71, relative to the disbursement of monies.

Impact

The amendments within SB2393 aim to enhance the oversight of public funds allocated for the opioid crisis, thereby potentially influencing state laws related to financial transparency and public health funding. By formalizing the reporting process, the bill seeks to establish a clearer framework for the accountability of how opioid abatement money is utilized, which may affect how similar funds are managed in the future. Given the ongoing tragedy of opioid addiction, this initiative could facilitate a more effective response by the state to combat the crisis.

Summary

Senate Bill 2393 proposes amendments to various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated, particularly concerning the disbursement of funds from the opioid abatement fund. The bill mandates the creation of an annual report detailing the financial activities of the fund, which should include total funds deposited, strategies funded for abatement, disbursements, and other related expenses. This report is to be delivered to key state officials, including the governor and leadership in the state legislature, ensuring transparency and accountability in how opioid abatement funds are managed and allocated.

Contention

While there may not be substantial points of contention publicly available regarding SB2393, questions could arise around the effectiveness of the reporting requirements and whether they will lead to meaningful advancements in addressing the opioid epidemic. Critics might argue that simply reporting on expenditures does not equate to effective action, while proponents believe that transparency is a crucial first step in reforming state responses to public health emergencies. Overall, the bill seeks to increase public confidence in state efforts to manage the consequences of opioid misuse.