Sen. Shane Reeves

Maddy summarySB 2546 allows solid waste disposal facilities (like landfills or treatment sites) to submit groundwater sampling reports electronically instead of on paper, with approval from Tennessee's Department of Environment and Conservation. The bill amends multiple sections of Tennessee law to permit this electronic reporting method, making the process more flexible for facilities. It does not require electronic submission but gives the department the authority to authorize it. The change takes effect on July 1, 2026, and directly affects facilities currently required to file these environmental compliance reports.

Maddy summarySB 2551 requires Tennessee counties and municipalities to obtain a written "host community agreement" from the local government where a landfill is located before disposing of solid waste outside their own boundaries. This applies to all new waste disposal contracts entered after July 1, 2026, and mandates agreements include details like duration, fees, environmental protections, and truck routes. Existing contracts in place before July 2026 are exempt until their expiration. The law aims to ensure local communities consent to accepting waste from other jurisdictions, with the state department verifying agreements before issuing disposal permits.

Maddy summarySB 2553 amends Tennessee's Livestock Dealer Act to broaden the definition of "alternative livestock" by removing the requirement that such animals must have hooves. This change directly affects owners and dealers of non-traditional livestock (like rabbits, reptiles, or rodents) that previously fell outside the regulatory scope. The key provision deletes the phrase "hoofed and" from the statute, ensuring all non-traditional livestock now require the same licensing and oversight as traditional hoofed animals. The bill creates a clearer regulatory framework for these businesses under Tennessee Code Annotated Title 44, Chapter 10.

Maddy summarySB 1934 removes term limits for members of Tennessee's State Energy Policy Council by deleting a provision in Tennessee Code Annotated that previously restricted council members to a maximum number of terms. This change directly affects current and future council members, allowing them to serve multiple terms without restriction. The bill amends TCA Title 68, Chapter 204, Section 105, specifically removing subsection (d), and takes effect upon becoming law. As a procedural change to council membership rules, it does not alter energy policy or create new regulations.

Maddy summarySJR 665 is a ceremonial resolution honoring Jim Tracy for his public service. It commends his 13-year tenure in the Tennessee Senate (2005-2017), his role as USDA State Director for Tennessee, and his career in agriculture, education, and community leadership. The resolution has no legal effect or policy changes - it solely expresses the General Assembly’s recognition of Tracy’s contributions. It was formally adopted by both legislative chambers and signed by the Governor on February 12, 2026.

Maddy summarySB 2086 establishes the "Tobacco Product Retail Licensing Act," requiring the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission to license and regulate all retailers selling tobacco products, including cigarettes, cigars, and vapor products like e-cigarettes. The law defines tobacco products broadly to cover nicotine products and vapor devices, and prohibits sales to anyone under 21, with specific rules for venues like cigar bars that restrict entry to those 21 or older. Retailers must verify customer age and comply with restrictions, such as banning sales to minors and prohibiting vaping in certain establishments. The commission will conduct compliance checks by sending individuals aged 16-20 to attempt purchases to ensure retailers follow the new rules.

Maddy summarySB 558 amends Tennessee law to authorize the Fish & Wildlife Commission to regulate "sport shooting ranges" (not traditional firing ranges) and establish public use fees for these facilities. The bill allows the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency to set fees for ranges operating before July 1, 1998, and to contract with others for range operations. All fees collected must be deposited into the Wildlife Resources Fund. The law takes effect July 1, 2025.

Maddy summarySB 2020 would prevent Tennessee health insurance companies from reducing payments for healthcare services (downcoding) except in specific, limited situations, requiring them to provide the treating provider's identification and credentials when doing so. It extends the validity of prior authorizations for essential treatments like mental health care, cancer therapies, opioid medications, and preventive services, reducing the need for repeated approvals for patients. The bill also prohibits insurers from using artificial intelligence tools alone to deny care, mandating that licensed physicians must review and approve such decisions based on individual patient history. This legislation would directly affect healthcare providers, insurers, and patients in Tennessee by streamlining payment processes and ensuring medical decisions are made by qualified professionals.

Maddy summarySB 2021 required Tennessee correctional facilities to provide inmates with a food assistance application before release, including options to decline assistance and state reasons for refusal (with anonymous option). It mandated correctional staff to distribute and collect these applications, then submit annual reports to the legislature on application completion rates, reasons for declines, and approval numbers. The bill was introduced in January 2026 but withdrawn on February 2, 2026, and never became law. It would have directly affected incarcerated individuals preparing for release and state correctional institutions.

Maddy summarySB 1789 amends Tennessee law to extend the deadline for law enforcement officers to file reports about seized alcohol. Currently, officers must submit a written statement detailing the type, quantity, and source (if known) of seized intoxicating liquor within five days. This bill changes that requirement to ten days, giving officers more time to complete the documentation. The change applies to all officers taking possession of alcohol under Tennessee Code Annotated Sections 57-9-104 and related provisions.