The Tennessee State Senate passed legislation to protect one of Tennessee’s most treasured natural resources by preventing new landfill construction near the Big South Fork of the Cumberland River.

Sponsored by State Senator Ken Yager, Senate Bill 2172 designates the entire segment of the Big South Fork of the Cumberland River in Scott County as a Class II Pastoral River Area under the Tennessee Scenic Rivers Act and prohibits the construction or operation of new solid or hazardous waste landfills in certain counties where two rivers merge to form a Class II scenic river that flows through a national river and recreation area and then crosses into another state.

The Big South Fork of the Cumberland River flows through the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area. This federally managed park attracts thousands of visitors each year for hiking, paddling, fishing, and other outdoor activities.

The legislation ensures that existing landfills are not impacted by the new restrictions. Any landfill currently operating under a valid permit would be allowed to continue operating, renew its permit, and expand. Additionally, facilities that were operating with a valid permit on January 1, 2026, are specifically exempt from the new land use and permitting restrictions.

The bill will now head to the House Agriculture and Natural Resources Subcommittee for further review