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HB 220

Water Authorities - As introduced, expands the areas served by the West Tennessee River Basin Authority to include Perry, Stewart, Houston, and Humphreys counties. - Amends TCA Title 64, Chapter 1, Part 11.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Jay Reedy

Expands West Tennessee River Basin Authority's service territory to four additional counties, potentially increasing regional water management oversight and affecting local water rates and development policies.

H. Placed on Consent Calendar for 4/20/2026
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Bill Summary · HB 220

Legislative bill overview

HB 220 expands the jurisdiction of the West Tennessee River Basin Authority to include four additional counties: Perry, Stewart, Houston, and Humphreys. This amendment modifies Tennessee Code Annotated Title 64, Chapter 1, Part 11, which governs water authority operations and service areas.

Why is this important

River basin authorities manage water resources, coordinate infrastructure projects, and address water quality and supply issues across regions. Expanding a basin authority's service area increases its regulatory reach and resource management responsibilities, potentially affecting water rates, development policies, and environmental oversight in the newly included counties.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost implications: Expanding service areas may require new infrastructure investments or administrative costs that could affect water rates for residents in the four added counties
  • Local control concerns: Some stakeholders may view this as reducing county-level autonomy over water management in favor of regional authority oversight
  • Fiscal impact details: The bill's current placement "behind the budget" suggests unclear or contested fiscal consequences that require clarification before passage

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

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