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HB 1983

Water Authorities - As introduced, establishes that public water systems have a maximum allowable hardwater level of 180 mg/L, measured as calcium carbonate equivalents; creates compliance and reporting requirements; exempts measurements that exceed the limit due to seasonal runoff in certain circumstances. - Amends TCA Title 68, Chapter 221, Part 7.

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

HB 1983 sets Tennessee public water systems to a maximum hardness limit of 180 mg/L with compliance requirements and seasonal runoff exemptions.

Reset on Final cal. 2 of Agriculture and Natural Resources Subcommittee
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Bill Summary · HB 1983

Legislative bill overview

HB 1983 establishes a maximum hardwater limit of 180 mg/L (measured as calcium carbonate) for Tennessee public water systems and creates compliance and reporting requirements. The bill includes exemptions for seasonal runoff situations that cause exceedances and amends existing water quality regulations under Tennessee Code Annotated Title 68.

Why is this important

Hard water affects millions of consumers through increased costs for appliances, reduced soap effectiveness, and potential plumbing damage. Setting a statewide standard creates uniform water quality expectations across public systems and provides regulatory clarity, though implementation costs and compliance timelines will vary significantly by utility size and geographic location.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost burden on utilities: Water softening infrastructure and treatment modifications can be expensive, particularly for smaller rural systems, potentially leading to rate increases for consumers
  • Seasonal exemption scope: The ambiguous language around "certain circumstances" for seasonal runoff exemptions could create compliance disputes and unequal enforcement across different water authorities
  • Scientific baseline: The 180 mg/L threshold lacks context regarding whether this aligns with EPA recommendations (no federal limit exists) or is based on specific Tennessee water quality data and public health studies

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

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