Tennessee Senate Bill SB2896

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/24
• Engrossed: 3/11/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8, Chapter 42 and Title 9, Chapter 8, relative to state employees.

Impact

By expanding the definition of state employees, SB2896 aims to facilitate better governance and support for individuals working in soil and water management sectors. This inclusion is significant as it acknowledges the role of both paid personnel and volunteers in maintaining the state's natural resources. The change may promote more robust participation in conservation efforts, potentially leading to improved environmental outcomes. Additionally, it may provide these individuals access to state employee benefits and protections, further incentivizing involvement in these programs.

Summary

Senate Bill 2896 amends the Tennessee Code Annotated specifically in Title 8, Chapter 42 and Title 9, Chapter 8, focusing on definitions and eligibility of individuals recognized as state employees. The bill aims to broaden the definition of 'state employee' to include board supervisors, officers, employees, and agents of soil and water conservation districts, as well as volunteers participating in programs authorized by these districts. This modification seeks to enhance the recognition of individuals who contribute to state efforts in conservation and environmental protection.

Contention

There might be points of contention regarding the inclusion of volunteers in the definition of state employees. Critics could argue about the implications such inclusion might have on state resources and benefits allocation. Concerns may arise regarding whether volunteer work should qualify individuals for the same status and benefits as full-time employees, potentially leading to administrative challenges or misuse of state resources. Proponents, however, would likely advocate that recognizing the value of volunteer work is essential for encouraging civic engagement in critical state-related initiatives.