Tennessee House Bill HB1464

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/17/25
• Refer: 1/14/26
• Refer: 2/18/26
• Refer: 3/11/26
• Refer: 4/15/26
• Engrossed: 4/21/26
• Enrolled: 4/30/26
• Passed: 5/7/26
• Chaptered: 5/15/26

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 5; Title 6; Title 7, Chapter 51; Title 8 and Title 50, relative to electrical linemen.

Impact

The bill modifies Tennessee Code Annotated by creating a specific legal definition for 'electrical lineman' and integrates them into the broader category of emergency responders. This change is expected to bolster the rights and claims processes available to the estates of electrical linemen in the event of work-related incidents, granting them access to the same claim review processes as other emergency personnel. This ensures that their families have recourse in cases of injury or death while performing their duties, thereby enhancing workplace safety and accountability within the industry.

Summary

House Bill 1464, known as 'The Chance Carlton Act', aims to amend existing Tennessee law pertaining to the definitions and recognition of electrical linemen as essential emergency responders. The bill reclassifies electrical linemen to include them explicitly in the legal framework that acknowledges their role in maintaining critical electrical infrastructure and responding to emergencies. This recognition is vital as it confirms their contributions to public safety and ensures they receive similar protections and benefits as other emergency responders under Tennessee law.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1464 appears overwhelmingly positive among lawmakers, reflecting a collective recognition of the importance of electrical linemen. Supporters view the bill as an important step in honoring those who work tirelessly to keep the power running and to ensure public safety during emergencies. However, the bill may face scrutiny from various advocates who raise concerns about the sufficiency of provisions for protecting linemen's rights and ensuring workplace safety standards are properly implemented.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the comprehensive scope of benefits provided to the estates of electrical linemen compared to other emergency responders. While the bill seeks to provide essential protections, questions may arise regarding the adequacy of support for linemen and how the new definitions and provisions will align with existing labor laws. Moreover, the implementation of this act and whether it will effectively cover all scenarios faced by electrical linemen during emergency response situations may also generate debate in future discussions among stakeholders.