Tennessee Senate Bill SB2542

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 5; Title 29, Chapter 17; Title 29, Chapter 16; Title 54, Chapter 21 and Title 65, Chapter 27, relative to eminent domain.

Impact

This bill potentially impacts various aspects of state laws concerning eminent domain by enforcing stricter reporting requirements. By mandating the disclosure of expenditures, SB2542 aims to provide state lawmakers and the public with clearer insights into the financial implications of property acquisitions due to eminent domain. Such transparency could lead to more informed legislative decisions regarding property rights and government spending.

Summary

Senate Bill 2542 aims to amend portions of the Tennessee Code Annotated related to eminent domain. The bill is designed to require the Commissioner of Finance and Administration to report the total amount of state funds allocated to property acquisitions through eminent domain in the 2023-2024 fiscal year. The report must be submitted to key legislative committees by January 1, 2025. This requirement is intended to enhance accountability and transparency concerning the state's use of eminent domain powers, particularly how state funds are utilized in property acquisition.

Contention

While the summary does not delve into specific points of contention, discussions around eminent domain legislation often include debates about property rights and the balance of power between governmental authority and individual landownership. Critics may argue that the increased scrutiny required by SB2542 could lead to an overemphasis on potential state expenditures, while proponents of the bill could contend that it establishes necessary checks on how eminent domain is exercised in Tennessee.