Tennessee Senate Bill SB1198

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 5; Title 6; Title 7; Title 11; Title 13; Title 39; Title 46; Title 62 and Title 67, relative to burial grounds.

Impact

The implications of SB1198 primarily concern regulatory oversight of burial grounds across Tennessee. By extending the notice period, this amendment aims to enhance the protection of burial sites, ensuring that community members have ample opportunity to engage with changes that might affect them. This could lead to more thoughtful planning and increased community involvement in decisions regarding burial grounds, ultimately leading to better preservation of these culturally and historically significant sites.

Summary

Senate Bill 1198, introduced by Senator Oliver, proposes an amendment to various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated concerning burial grounds. The bill is straightforward in its purpose, seeking to adjust time frames and responsibilities related to the administration and maintenance of these sites. A key feature of the legislation is the change in the required notice period for actions related to burial grounds from ten days to fifteen days, which is intended to provide additional time for public awareness and response.

Contention

While the bill itself does not appear to be controversial, discussions around burial regulations can often raise broader questions about historical preservation versus modern development needs. Some stakeholders may argue about the impacts of extended notice periods, particularly how they might affect land development or funeral services. Thus, while the changes outlined in SB1198 are administrative, the bill's potential impact on larger dialogues regarding land use and preservation are relevant considerations in legislative discussions.