Tennessee Senate Bill SB7059

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 8/21/23

Caption

AN ACT to make appropriations for the purpose of defraying the expenses of the state government for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2023, in the administration, operation, and maintenance of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches of the various departments, institutions, offices, and agencies of the state; for certain state aid and obligations; for capital outlay, for the service of the public debt, for emergency and contingency; to repeal certain appropriations and any acts inconsistent herewith; to provide provisional continuing appropriations; and to establish certain provisions, limitations, and restrictions under which appropriations may be obligated and expended. This act makes appropriations for the purposes described above for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2023.

Impact

One notable aspect of SB7059 is its provision of $90 million (nonrecurring) aimed specifically at implementing a grant program designed to assist local education agencies and public charter schools. This funding is intended to enhance school safety through the implementation of alert systems, reflecting a growing concern for student safety and well-being in educational environments. By directing resources towards school safety measures, the bill acknowledges the need for improved security protocols in response to increasing incidents affecting schools.

Summary

Senate Bill 7059 focuses on making appropriations for the state government to operate during the fiscal year starting July 1, 2023. This legislation is crucial as it allocates funds for various departments, institutions, offices, and agencies of the state, ensuring that essential services continue without interruption. The bill emphasizes fiscal responsibility by addressing the necessary spending for the legislative, executive, and judicial branches, as well as capital outlay and public debt obligations.

Contention

While the bill lays out essential appropriations for the fiscal year, there could be points of contention regarding the allocation amounts and the effectiveness of the funded programs. Critics may argue that the focused appropriations do not comprehensively address other pressing issues within state education and public safety sectors. Additionally, the nonrecurring nature of the funding designated for school safety could raise concerns about long-term sustainability and commitments to future educational safety improvements.