WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 670

Environment and Conservation, Department of - As introduced, decreases from 450 to 400 feet from the usual banks of a Class II or Class III scenic river, the maximum area within which development is limited. - Amends TCA Title 11.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Renea Jones

Tennessee bill narrows scenic river protection buffers by 50 feet, permitting closer development to Class II and III waterways and reducing environmental safeguards.

Intro., P1C.
#departmentof #environmentandconservation
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 670

Legislative bill overview

HB 670 would reduce the protected buffer zone along Tennessee's Class II and Class III scenic rivers from 450 feet to 400 feet from the riverbank, allowing development to occur closer to these waterways. The bill amends Tennessee Code Annotated Title 11, which governs environmental and conservation regulations.

Why is this important

Scenic river designations protect ecologically and aesthetically significant waterways from degradation. Narrowing the buffer zone directly increases the land available for development near protected rivers, potentially affecting water quality, wildlife habitat, erosion control, and public access to scenic areas.

Potential points of contention

  • Environmental protection trade-offs: A 50-foot reduction may seem minor but could cumulatively increase sedimentation, runoff, and habitat fragmentation along sensitive waterways
  • Property rights vs. conservation: Developers and landowners may see the narrower buffer as reasonable for economic activity, while conservationists argue existing protections are already minimal
  • Vague implementation: The bill doesn't specify which developments are affected or provide transition rules for properties in the affected zone

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

Sign in to ask a question.