House Bill 950 aims to enhance environmental protection in Tennessee by establishing the Urban Green Space Development Fund, which will be managed by the Department of Environment and Conservation. This fund will provide grants to local government entities and private nonprofit organizations for the acquisition of green spaces in urban areas. The bill defines "green space" and "urban area," and outlines the requirements for grant applications, including the necessity for matching funds from nonstate sources. Additionally, it mandates that any land acquired through these grants must have a perpetual easement restricting its use to green space, ensuring long-term preservation.

The bill also introduces a new program to incentivize community-led projects aimed at improving air quality. It clarifies that the act does not appropriate funds unless specifically allocated by the general appropriations act and establishes guidelines for the administration of the fund, including audit requirements for grant recipients. The act will take effect upon becoming law for rule promulgation purposes, while other provisions will be effective starting January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 68-201-107