House Bill 2381, also known as Senate Bill 2213, amends various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated related to utilities. Notably, it modifies Section 65-5-114(c) by changing the term "request" to "request in writing." Additionally, it introduces new provisions in Section 7-51-2703, requiring utilities to provide materials necessary for utility infrastructure construction at the same price they paid, without additional taxes for customers or approved contractors. An itemized statement of costs must also be provided. Furthermore, it allows customers or contractors to choose whether to install street lights during infrastructure installation, ensuring they are not mandated to do so.
The bill also revises Section 7-51-2704, establishing that fees for inspections and testing must not exceed a combined total of 10% of the project's proposed cost. It specifies that utilities cannot charge more than the amounts described in the newly added subsections. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, and will apply to conduct occurring on or after that date.
Statutes affected: Introduced: 65-5-114(c), 65-5-114
Amended with SA0707 -- 03/23/2026: 65-5-114(c), 65-5-114, 7-51-2703, 7-51-2702, 7-51-2704(a)(1), 7-51-2704, 7-51-2704(f)