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HB 124

Environment and Conservation, Department of - As enacted, makes various changes related to fees set by the department for environmental regulatory programs; makes changes to the regulation of coal combustion residuals disposal units. - Amends TCA Title 68, Chapter 203, Part 1 and Title 68, Chapter 211, Part 1.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by William Lamberth

Tennessee adjusts environmental permit fees and tightens coal ash disposal regulations to balance regulatory costs and pollution control.

Comp. became Pub. Ch. 399
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Bill Summary · HB 124

Legislative bill overview

HB 124 modifies fee structures for Tennessee's Department of Environment and Conservation's regulatory programs and adjusts regulations governing how coal combustion residuals (ash from coal-burning power plants) disposal units are managed. The bill amends two sections of Tennessee's environmental code to implement these changes.

Why is this important

Fee changes affect how much businesses and utilities pay for environmental permits and compliance, which can influence operational costs and ultimately consumer utility rates. Coal ash disposal regulations are significant because improper management can contaminate groundwater and soil, making this a public health and environmental safety matter.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost allocation: Whether fee increases/decreases fairly distribute regulatory costs among polluters versus taxpayers
  • Coal ash oversight: Whether the new regulations adequately protect communities near disposal sites or provide too much flexibility to coal plant operators
  • Economic impact: How fee changes affect utility rates and industrial competitiveness in the state

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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