Tennessee House Bill HB0211

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/13/23
• Refer: 1/21/23
• Refer: 2/6/23
• Chaptered: 3/23/23
• Passed: 3/23/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4, Chapter 29 and Title 68, Chapter 121, relative to the elevator and amusement device safety board.

Impact

If enacted, this amendment to the Tennessee Code will have a direct effect on how safety regulations are managed for elevators and amusement devices in the state. By establishing a dedicated safety board, the bill aims to consolidate expertise and oversight in this area, leading to more effective enforcement of safety measures. Consequently, it could potentially influence maintenance standards and operational safety practices across all facilities that utilize elevators and amusement devices, ensuring safer environments for residents and visitors alike.

Summary

House Bill 0211, aimed at amending certain sections of the Tennessee Code related to the elevator and amusement device safety board, seeks to enhance safety standards in these areas. The bill proposes to remove a subdivision from the existing law and introduces a new subdivision that establishes a specific safety board focusing on elevators and amusement devices. This change is intended to ensure that regulations are up-to-date and comprehensive, thereby improving overall safety for the public. The bill was passed on February 13, 2023, with unanimous support, reflecting a strong commitment to public safety.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 0211 has been overwhelmingly positive, with no opposition recorded during the voting process. Legislators expressed a consensus on the importance of public safety and the necessity for updated regulations that reflect modern safety standards. The bill generated support not only for its immediate implications but also for its long-term benefits in protecting the public from potential hazards associated with elevators and amusement devices.

Contention

While the bill was passed with broad support, the main point of contention was over the specifics of the amendments and their implementation. Some legislators raised concerns about how the new regulations would be enforced and whether the establishment of a safety board would effectively address existing gaps in safety standards without imposing excessive bureaucratic processes. However, these concerns were largely mitigated by the bill's proponents who emphasized the goal of enhancing safety rather than adding to regulatory burdens.