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SB 855

Utilities, Utility Districts - As introduced, increases, from 10 days to 10 business days, the time after appointment and qualification of members for a board of public utilities appointed under the Municipal Electric Plan Law of 1935 by which the board must elect a chair. - Amends TCA Title 4; Title 5; Title 6; Title 7; Title 8; Title 12; Title 13; Title 29; Title 54; Title 64; Title 65; Title 68 and Title 69.

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

SB 855 extends utility board chair election deadline from 10 calendar days to 10 business days after member appointment under Tennessee's Municipal Electric Plan Law.

Enrolled and ready for signatures
#utilities #utilitydistricts
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Bill Summary · SB 855

Legislative bill overview

SB 855 extends the deadline for utility district boards to elect a chair from 10 calendar days to 10 business days following member appointment and qualification. The bill amends multiple Tennessee code sections governing utilities and utility districts under the Municipal Electric Plan Law of 1935.

Why is this important

This change provides boards with additional practical time to organize and conduct their leadership election, potentially reducing rushed or incomplete governance processes. The difference between calendar and business days can mean 4-6 extra days depending on weekends and holidays, which may facilitate better decision-making during board transitions.

Potential points of contention

  • Minimal operational impact: The extension is modest and unlikely to significantly affect utility operations, raising questions about whether legislative attention is necessary for such a technical adjustment
  • Consistency across similar provisions: The bill amends 12 different title sections, suggesting potential inconsistencies in how similar deadlines are currently structured across Tennessee law
  • Stakeholder impact unclear: The bill summary doesn't specify whether this change was requested by utilities, municipal governments, or others, making it unclear whose concerns this addresses

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

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