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SB 983

Utilities, Utility Districts - As introduced, removes the requirement that each year the Tennessee public utility commission submit to the general assembly a report describing the competitive nature of the telecommunications market in this state. - Amends TCA Title 65, Chapter 1 and Title 65, Chapter 5.

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

SB 983 eliminates the Tennessee PUC's mandatory annual report on telecommunications market competition, reducing legislative oversight of industry consolidation and consumer protection issues.

Passed on Second Consideration, refer to Senate Commerce and Labor Committee
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Bill Summary · SB 983

Legislative bill overview

SB 983 eliminates an annual reporting requirement that mandates the Tennessee Public Utility Commission (PUC) to assess and report on the competitive landscape of the state's telecommunications market to the legislature. The bill amends Tennessee's utility regulatory statutes governing both the PUC and utility districts.

Why is this important

Telecommunications market competition directly affects consumer pricing, service quality, and innovation in broadband and phone services. The removal of this reporting requirement reduces legislative oversight and transparency regarding market conditions, potentially limiting lawmakers' ability to identify monopolistic practices or service gaps in rural areas.

Potential points of contention

  • Loss of market transparency: Eliminating the annual competitive assessment removes a formal mechanism for tracking whether telecommunications providers are competing fairly or consolidating market power
  • Rural broadband concerns: Without regular PUC reports on market competitiveness, policymakers may lack data to address service gaps in underserved areas
  • Regulatory accountability: Removing reporting requirements reduces the PUC's obligation to justify regulatory decisions related to telecommunications competition and pricing to elected representatives

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

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