House Bill 1809, also known as Senate Bill 2006, amends various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated related to the unlawful disposal of waste. The bill establishes that offenses under certain provisions are generally classified as Class C misdemeanors, but elevates the classification to Class B misdemeanors if the offense occurs while a person is engaged in the business of removing accumulated wastes from subsurface sewage disposal systems. This change is reflected in amendments to Sections 39-17-102(d), 68-221-413(a), and 68-221-713(f)(1), where specific language is deleted and replaced to clarify these classifications.

The bill aims to strengthen penalties for unlawful waste disposal, particularly in the context of professional waste removal services, thereby promoting better environmental practices and accountability within the industry. The new legal language emphasizes the seriousness of violations related to sewage and effluent disposal, ensuring that those operating in this field face more stringent consequences for non-compliance. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 39-17-102(d), 39-17-102, 68-221-413(a), 68-221-413, 68-221-713(f)(1), 68-221-713