Bill > SB0670

This bill establishes new regulations for wetlands in Tennessee, focusing on how isolated wetlands are classified, reported, and potentially altered. The legislation creates a detailed framework for wetland assessment, introducing three quality classifications for isolated wetlands (low, moderate, and high) and defining an "artificial isolated wetland." Developers can now request wetland determinations by submitting reports from third-party professionals, with specific review timelines for state officials. The bill permits alteration of low and moderate-quality isolated wetlands under certain conditions without requiring full permits, with size-based restrictions: for example, altering up to one acre of a low-quality wetland or up to a quarter-acre of a moderate-quality wetland can be done without approval, provided environmental protections are maintained. When larger areas of low or moderate-quality wetlands are altered, a general permit is required, and some minimal mitigation might be necessary. High-quality isolated wetlands and larger alterations will still require individual permits. The bill also mandates annual reporting by the Division of Water Resources about wetland permit applications and mitigation mechanisms. Notably, the legislation stipulates that isolated wetlands should not be considered in cumulative impact analyses for projects, and the state's wetland resource assessment tool must undergo a public comment period. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SB0670&ga=114