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SB 2175

Water - As introduced, requires the department of environment and conservation to add water system projects located in counties having a population of less than 57,000 according to the 2020 census, or a subsequent census, to the priority list for consideration for loans from the water system revolving loan fund. - Amends TCA Title 68, Chapter 221.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Ken Yager

Tennessee bill prioritizes water infrastructure loans for counties under 57,000 population to improve rural system access to state revolving loan fund financing.

Transmitted to Governor for action.
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Bill Summary · SB 2175

Legislative bill overview

SB 2175 mandates that Tennessee's Department of Environment and Conservation prioritize water system infrastructure projects in counties with populations under 57,000 (based on 2020 or subsequent census data) when distributing loans from the water system revolving loan fund. This targets rural and small counties for preferential consideration in accessing state financing for water infrastructure improvements.

Why is this important

Rural water systems often struggle with aging infrastructure, limited local funding capacity, and difficulty accessing capital for necessary upgrades. By creating a priority category for smaller counties, this bill aims to ensure underserved populations receive adequate attention in state-level infrastructure investment decisions. Water system reliability directly affects public health, property values, and economic development potential in affected communities.

Potential points of contention

  • Fairness across population sizes: Mid-sized counties (57,000-100,000 residents) may argue they're equally underserved but receive no preferential treatment, creating a potential cliff effect at the 57,000 threshold
  • Limited revolving fund resources: Prioritizing one group inherently deprioritizes others; if the fund has finite capacity, this could delay projects in larger population areas or create bottlenecks
  • Definition rigidity: Using a strict census-based population cutoff may not accurately reflect actual infrastructure need or financial capacity, as rural counties vary widely in wealth and system conditions

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

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