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SB 83

Sunset Laws - As enacted, extends the statewide planning and policy council for the department of mental health and substance abuse services to June 30, 2029. - Amends TCA Title 4, Chapter 29 and Title 33, Chapter 1.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Ed Jackson

Tennessee extends mental health and substance abuse planning council authorization through 2029, deferring legislative reevaluation of its ongoing necessity and performance.

Pub. Ch. 13
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Bill Summary · SB 83

Legislative bill overview

SB 83 extends the sunset date for Tennessee's statewide planning and policy council for the department of mental health and substance abuse services from its previous expiration date to June 30, 2029. This prevents the council from automatically dissolving and allows it to continue its operations, planning, and advisory functions for an additional period.

Why is this important

Sunset provisions require government bodies to be periodically reauthorized, creating opportunities to evaluate their effectiveness and necessity. By extending this council's authorization, Tennessee signals continued commitment to coordinated mental health and substance abuse policy planning, though it also delays any potential reassessment of the council's performance and value.

Potential points of contention

  • Accountability mechanism: Extending sunset dates can reduce legislative scrutiny of council performance since reauthorization happens less frequently
  • Resource allocation: Continuation of the council commits ongoing state resources without a recent formal evaluation of its effectiveness or necessity
  • Policy continuity vs. reform: The extension maintains the status quo rather than prompting potential restructuring or modernization of how mental health and substance abuse policy is coordinated

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

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