Bill > SB1138

This bill introduces several provisions related to sewer systems in Tennessee, focusing on three key areas: (1) Preventing cities or towns from ceasing sewer operations outside their corporate boundaries if they have been providing such service for 25 years or more, contingent on maintaining sufficient system capacity as determined by the Tennessee board of utility regulation; (2) Similarly preventing utility districts from discontinuing sewer services in unincorporated county territories after 25 years of operation, also subject to capacity review; and (3) requiring utility systems to provide wastewater service connections to property owners when an existing gravity sewer line is located on their property and they request connection. The bill establishes a process for property owners to appeal if a utility system refuses service, first by addressing the utility's governing board and then, if unresolved within 60 days, by submitting a complaint to the Tennessee board of utility regulation for review. Throughout these provisions, the bill explicitly states that these new requirements do not impact existing or future water and wastewater service contract arrangements. The legislation aims to protect long-standing sewer service provisions and ensure property owners have access to wastewater services when feasible.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SB1138&ga=114