Tennessee House Bill HB0086

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/10/23
• Refer: 1/12/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 64, Chapter 1, Part 6, relative to the Tennessee Duck River development agency.

Impact

The proposed changes under HB0086 include the implementation of a fee structure, where the Duck River development agency will charge participating entities a per thousand-gallon fee for water withdrawals. This fee will be set based on recommendations from a technical advisory committee and is designed to cover administrative costs and support regional water supply projects. This shift towards a more structured fee system may encourage better resource management and financial sustainability for the agency overseeing these activities.

Summary

House Bill 0086 aims to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated to enhance the governance and management of water withdrawals from the Duck River basin. The bill establishes that any county, municipality, governmental agency, or commercial customer that withdraws water from this area is considered a sponsoring and participating entity. This new classification is intended to streamline and clarify regulatory responsibilities concerning water resources in the Duck River basin, ensuring that all relevant parties contribute to its management.

Contention

A significant point of contention surrounding HB0086 may stem from the proposed fee structure and the potential financial impact on local governments and businesses that rely on Duck River water. Opponents could argue that the new fees may disproportionately affect smaller municipalities and industries, leading to disputes over how such costs should be allocated and managed. The requirement for periodic fee reviews introduces an element of uncertainty that stakeholder entities may view with concern, questioning the implications of fluctuating fees and financial obligations.