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SB 2719

Unicoi County - Subject to local approval, aligns the county's mineral severance tax with the tax amounts prescribed under state law. - Amends Chapter 213 of the Private Acts of 1982.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Steve Southerland

Unicoi County may realign its mineral severance tax with Tennessee state law rates, pending local voter approval, affecting county revenue and business taxes.

Companion House Bill substituted
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Bill Summary · SB 2719

Legislative bill overview

SB 2719 allows Unicoi County to adjust its mineral severance tax rates to match those established under Tennessee state law, subject to local voter approval. The bill amends the county's existing tax authority established in 1982, modernizing it to align with current state-level standards.

Why is this important

Mineral severance taxes are a significant revenue source for counties with extractive industries. Aligning local rates with state standards can reduce administrative complexity, ensure tax competitiveness for mineral operators, and potentially affect county budgets depending on whether rates increase or decrease. This impacts both county services funded by these revenues and business operating costs in the region.

Potential points of contention

  • Revenue implications: The bill doesn't specify whether Unicoi County's new rates will increase or decrease tax collections, creating uncertainty about county budget impacts
  • Local control vs. state standardization: Some may view state-prescribed tax amounts as limiting local autonomy in setting tax policy for county-specific economic needs
  • Voter approval requirement: The local referendum requirement adds process steps and could face community opposition if mineral operators or residents object to the new rate structure

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

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