TN HB1645

Tipton County's legislative body may designate a division of its general sessions court as the Environmental Court to handle violations of county and municipal ordinances related to health, housing, fire, land subdivision, building, and zoning.

The Environmental Court judge gains authority to issue mandatory and prohibitory injunctions under Rule 65 and may order defendants to correct violations at their own expense.

The judge may appoint a master under Rule 53 to assist the court in cases involving alleged ordinance violations.

Contempt penalties for willful failure to comply with court orders are capped at $50.00 and 10 days imprisonment per violation.

The act requires approval by a two-thirds vote of the Tipton County legislative body before taking effect.