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SB 2057

Sewage - As introduced, clarifies that a utility system providing waste water service must provide a connection to the owner of real property for waste water service when the utility system has an existing gravity sewer line located adjacent to the owner's property, not just where the utility system has an existing gravity sewer line on such property. - Amends TCA Title 7, Chapter 35; Title 7, Chapter 82 and Title 68, Chapter 221.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Brent Taylor

Tennessee utilities must now provide wastewater connections to properties with sewer lines adjacent (not just on) their land, expanding infrastructure access but raising cost and capacity questions.

Enrolled and ready for signatures
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Bill Summary · SB 2057

Legislative bill overview

SB 2057 expands the obligation of sewage utility systems in Tennessee to connect property owners to wastewater service. Currently, utilities must provide connections only when sewer lines exist on the property; this bill requires them to connect when lines exist adjacent to the property. The change applies across three sections of Tennessee Code covering utility systems and sewage regulations.

Why is this important

This affects property owners' ability to access public sewage infrastructure, which is critical for public health, environmental protection, and property development. Currently, a property owner whose land sits next to a functioning sewer line may be unable to legally connect, forcing them to maintain private septic systems or face compliance issues. Expanding mandatory connection requirements could reduce environmental contamination and improve sanitation access, though it also creates new obligations for utility systems.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost allocation: Who bears the expense of extending connections from adjacent lines to individual properties—the utility, property owner, or shared? The bill's language doesn't clarify this.
  • Utility capacity and funding: Small or struggling utility systems may lack resources to fulfill expanded connection mandates without raising rates on existing customers.
  • Definition of "adjacent": The bill doesn't specify how close a line must be (10 feet? 50 feet?) to trigger the requirement, creating potential disputes and implementation challenges.

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

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