House Bill 2132, also known as Senate Bill 2479, amends Tennessee law to enhance safety measures for storm drains and culverts. The bill mandates that all newly installed storm drains and culverts, constructed after July 1, 2026, must be equipped with safety covers or grates if their openings are large enough for a child to potentially fall into or become trapped. Specifically, an opening is considered large enough if it exceeds twelve inches in diameter or width, or if it is otherwise accessible and poses a risk of bodily entry by a child. The safety covers must be made of durable materials, secured to prevent unauthorized removal, and designed to allow for proper drainage while preventing accidental entry.

Additionally, the bill requires that all public works contracts involving stormwater infrastructure include provisions for compliance with the new safety cover requirements. If a contractor fails to install the safety covers as mandated, parties contracting with the contractor may withhold payment and seek corrective action or penalties as outlined in the contract or by law. The Department of Health is tasked with promulgating rules to implement these provisions, including specifications for safety covers and inspection protocols. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.