Tennessee House Bill HB2024

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/22/26
• Refer: 2/4/26

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 65, Chapter 31, Part 1, relative to underground utility damage prevention.

Impact

If enacted, HB2024 is poised to impact the state's approach to managing underground utilities significantly. By mandating early notification and the adoption of innovative technologies like digital locating, the bill aims to mitigate risks associated with excavations that could lead to utility damages. This measure is anticipated to promote safer construction practices and could lead to a decrease in costly repairs and disruptions, thereby benefiting both utility companies and contractors in Tennessee.

Summary

House Bill 2024 primarily aims to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated concerning regulations around underground utility damage prevention. The bill introduces changes such as extending the notification period before excavation activities from fifteen to twenty calendar days, and it includes provisions for the use of digital locating to enhance the identification of underground utilities before any digging or dredging occurs. This is expected to improve communication between utility operators and contractors, potentially reducing incidents of utility damage during construction.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB2024 appears to be generally supportive among utility operators, as they recognize the benefits of clearer communication and advanced locating technologies in preventing damages. Contractors may appreciate the extended notification period as it allows more time for preparation. However, there could be concerns about the implementation costs associated with adopting new technologies and compliance with the updated regulations, which may generate some pushback from stakeholders who worry about increased operational burdens.

Contention

Despite the overall positive sentiment, some contention exists regarding the potential increase in regulatory compliance requirements and how these changes may affect smaller contractors. There are worries that not all contractors may have access to advanced digital locating tools, potentially creating disparities in how different entities can respond to the new regulations. Additionally, the requirement for prior meetings among operators and excavators raises questions on practicality and feasibility, especially in high-demand construction scenarios.