Tennessee House Bill HB1992

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/22/26
• Refer: 2/4/26

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 11, Chapter 25 and Title 70, relative to the Doe Mountain recreation authority.

Impact

The revisions proposed by HB 1992 have significant implications on state laws governing the Doe Mountain recreation authority. By confirming the authority's autonomy while establishing it as a recipient of administrative support, the bill reinforces the separation of powers within Tennessee's state governance framework. This legislative change seeks to enhance the operational efficiency of the authority while still upholding its independence, potentially affecting decision-making processes regarding environmental policies and recreational management on Doe Mountain.

Summary

House Bill 1992 aims to amend the Tennessee Code concerning the Doe Mountain recreation authority. It stipulates that the authority will receive administrative support from the Department of Environment and Conservation but maintains independence in operational control. Specifically, the bill clarifies the relationship between the authority and the department, ensuring that while the department provides support, it does not exert supervisory control over the authority's actions or decisions.

Contention

Discussion surrounding HB 1992 may include concerns about the authority's audit practices and fiscal transparency, as the bill mandates regular audits by the comptroller of the treasury. While supporters claim that this requirement will lead to greater accountability and responsible governance, critics might argue that it could impose unnecessary constraints on the authority's operational flexibility. Furthermore, the necessity of annual reports and audits introduces an added layer of bureaucracy that some may perceive as detrimental to efficient management of recreational resources.