WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 803

Water - As introduced, increases, from 60 to 65, the number of days that a party to a hearing before the board of certification for water and wastewater operators regarding a revocation or an appeal of an order or assessment of a civil penalty by the commissioner of environment and conservation has to appeal the order or assessment. - Amends TCA Title 7; Title 8; Title 9; Title 62, Chapter 2; Title 65; Title 68, Chapter 221 and Title 69.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Rusty Grills

Tennessee extends water operator licensing appeal deadlines from 60 to 65 days, giving parties more time to challenge board decisions on revocations and penalties.

Pub. Ch. 876
#water
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 803

Legislative bill overview

HB 803 extends the appeal deadline for water and wastewater operator licensing decisions from 60 to 65 days. The bill modifies Tennessee's water operator certification procedures to give parties involved in revocation hearings or civil penalty disputes five additional days to file appeals with the Board of Certification.

Why is this important

This change affects water utility operators, municipal water systems, and enforcement processes overseen by the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation. The extended timeline could reduce rushed appeals, allow more thorough legal preparation, and potentially decrease procedural errors—though it also delays final resolution of regulatory disputes.

Potential points of contention

  • Administrative efficiency vs. due process: Extending timelines may improve fairness but could slow enforcement actions against operators who pose public health risks
  • Consistency across agencies: The bill amends multiple title codes, raising questions about whether other regulatory boards should receive similar timeline extensions
  • Practical impact unclear: Five additional days may be insignificant for most parties but could matter in time-sensitive cases involving water system safety or operator employment status

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

Sign in to ask a question.