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HB 1667

Local Government, General - As introduced, authorizes municipalities and metropolitan governments to adopt a tiered system of monetary penalties for repeated violations of the same municipal ordinance by the same person or entity within a 12-month period. - Amends TCA Title 6 and Title 7.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Aron Maberry

Tennessee bill authorizes municipalities to impose escalating monetary penalties for repeat violations of local ordinances within 12 months to increase compliance and enforcement efficiency.

Rec. for pass by s/c ref. to Finance, Ways, and Means Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 1667

Legislative bill overview

HB 1667 allows Tennessee municipalities and metropolitan governments to implement escalating monetary penalties for repeat violations of the same local ordinance by the same person or entity within a 12-month period. The bill amends state statutes governing local government authority (TCA Titles 6 and 7) to explicitly authorize this tiered penalty structure.

Why this is important

This bill gives municipalities a graduated enforcement tool intended to deter repeat violations without requiring criminal prosecution or license revocation. It could affect how cities enforce parking codes, building ordinances, business regulations, and other local rules, potentially increasing compliance costs for individuals and businesses that repeatedly violate the same ordinance.

Potential points of contention

  • Fairness and due process concerns: Repeat violators may argue that escalating penalties constitute double punishment or lack proportionality, particularly for minor violations or those committed unknowingly
  • Economic impact on small businesses and low-income residents: Tiered penalties could disproportionately burden small business owners and low-income individuals who may struggle to comply with municipal codes
  • Lack of standardization: Without state guidelines, municipalities could implement widely varying penalty structures, creating inconsistent enforcement across Tennessee and potential for abuse

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

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