Tennessee House Bill HB1354

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 8, Chapter 21, Part 10, relative to registers' fees.

Impact

The implementation of HB1354 is intended to shed light on the current fee structures and practices employed by registers across Tennessee. By comparing these fees to similar charges in neighboring states, the bill seeks to ensure that Tennessee's fees remain competitive and fair. It also aims to enhance transparency in how local government fees are assessed and collected, potentially leading to revised policies that could affect how registers function within the framework of state and local governance.

Summary

House Bill 1354 aims to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically focusing on the fees assessed by registers under § 8-21-1001. The bill requires the Tennessee Advisory Commission on Intergovernmental Relations (TACIR) to conduct a comprehensive study of these fees. The study will focus on the total fees collected, fees not collected, the methods of collection, and how these fees compare to those in neighboring states. The findings of this study are expected to be reported by January 1, 2024, to relevant legislative committees and the legislative librarian.

Contention

One of the notable points regarding the discussions around HB1354 could involve concerns about the appropriateness of the fee structures in place and whether they accurately reflect the services rendered by registers. Stakeholders may raise questions about the efficiency of fee collection methods and the impact of any potential changes on local governments' revenue streams. Additionally, there may be debates on how such a study could shape future legislation regarding local government fees and operational practices.