Bill > SB0843

This bill modifies Tennessee's existing law regarding the 1986 Wetland Acquisition Fund, which receives 3.25 cents from a specific tax levy. The bill clarifies and expands the potential uses of the fund when its balance exceeds $6 million in a monthly financial period. Previously, the fund was primarily restricted to implementing wetland-related purposes under Title 11, Chapter 14, Part 4. The bill now allows the fund to be used for additional purposes, including maintaining and enhancing state-owned property under the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency's jurisdiction, funding law enforcement personnel salaries and expenses, and potentially transferring funds to the Tennessee Heritage Conservation Trust Fund with proper approvals. The commissioner of finance and administration, with written approval from the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency's executive director, can authorize such transfers subject to legislative appropriation. The bill specifically prohibits using these transferred funds as "other available sources" for certain statutory purposes. The changes will take effect on July 1, 2025, giving state agencies time to prepare for the new fund management guidelines.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SB0843&ga=114