Bill > HB1021

This bill amends Tennessee law to strengthen protections for owners of outdoor advertising devices when these devices are required to be removed by government agencies. Specifically, the bill mandates that if a political subdivision or governmental agency requires the removal of a lawfully erected outdoor advertising device without offering relocation options, the owner must be paid just compensation. This compensation includes both the cost of removal and the fair market value of the device. Importantly, the bill explicitly states that "amortization" (a method of compensation that reduces the device's value over time) cannot be used as a form of just compensation. The bill aligns with federal regulations under 23 U.S.C. § 131, which governs highway-related signage, and ensures that billboard owners are fairly compensated when their legally established advertising structures are forced to be removed. The legislation also includes a severability clause, meaning that if any part of the act is found invalid, the rest of the act can still be enforced, and it will take effect immediately upon becoming law.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB1021&ga=114