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Bill

HB 719

Labor and Workforce Development, Dept. of - As introduced, requires the chief elevator inspector to perform a final acceptance inspection upon completion of the installation, modification, or alteration of a private residence elevator prior to such elevator entering service; requires a homeowner to register a private residence elevator with the department; directs the chief elevator inspector to develop and maintain a database of private residence elevators. - Amends TCA Title 68, Chapter 121.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026)

Tennessee bill requires homeowner registration and state inspection of private residential elevators before operation, establishing safety oversight and statewide database.

Taken off notice for cal in s/c Banking and Consumer Affairs Subcommittee of Commerce Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 719

Legislative bill overview

HB 719 establishes safety oversight for private residential elevators in Tennessee by requiring final inspection by a chief elevator inspector before the elevator can operate, mandating homeowner registration with the Department of Labor and Workforce Development, and creating a statewide database of all private residence elevators. The bill amends existing elevator safety regulations under Tennessee Code Annotated Title 68, Chapter 121.

Why is this important

Private residence elevators currently operate with minimal regulatory oversight in many states, creating potential safety risks for homeowners, guests, and maintenance personnel. This legislation closes a regulatory gap by bringing residential elevators under the same inspection and registration framework as commercial elevators, which could prevent accidents, injuries, and fatalities while establishing accountability through documented registration.

Potential points of contention

  • Compliance burden on homeowners: Mandatory registration and inspection requirements may discourage installation of residential elevators or increase costs for retrofitting existing homes, potentially affecting accessibility for elderly or disabled residents
  • Inspector capacity and timeline: The chief elevator inspector must handle final inspections for all residential installations; unclear whether current staffing can meet demand without causing installation delays
  • Database privacy concerns: Creating a comprehensive registry of private residences with elevators could raise privacy questions about data security and how the information is stored, accessed, and potentially shared

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

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