Tennessee · 114th Regular Session (2025-2026) · Bill

HB 796: Utilities, Utility Districts - As enacted, clarifies that prior to the acquisition of assets of a natural gas utility regulated by the Tennessee public utility commission by a new owner or any other change in control of such assets, the commission has exclusive authority to approve the acquisition or change in control, including the assignment of franchise rights, upon a finding by the commission that such transfers of assets or control is in the public interest. - Amends TCA Title 5; Title 6; Title 7; Title 65; Title 68 and Title 69.

In committee Last action March 16, 2026: Comp. became Pub. Ch. 532

Plain-language summary

HB 796 is a bill introduced in the Tennessee House on February 4, 2025. According to its official title, it concerns: Utilities, Utility Districts - As enacted, clarifies that prior to the acquisition of assets of a natural gas utility regulated by the Tennessee public utility commission by a new owner or any other change in control of such assets, the commission has exclusive authority to approve the acquisition or change in control, including the assignment of franchise rights, upon a finding by the commission that such transfers of assets or control is in the public interest. - Amends TCA Title 5; Title 6; Title 7; Title 65; Title 68 and Title 69. Primary sponsor: Kevin Vaughan (Republican). Most recent recorded action (March 16, 2026): Comp. became Pub. Ch. 532.

Sponsors

Primary sponsor: Kevin Vaughan (Republican).