By Michael Christen
Posted Mar 17, 2019 at 12:01 AM Updated Mar 17, 2019 at 6:17 PM
Rep. Scott Cepicky, R-Columbia, who was elected to represent House District 64 in November, has been chosen as a co-prime sponsor to shepherd House Bill 925 through the legislative process on behalf of Republican leadership, according to a press release from the House Republican Caucus.
House Bill 925 streamlines response protocols for rescue teams during mining emergencies, while also saving taxpayer dollars, the announcement said.
Additionally, the measure ensures that all companies who operate at all 11 Tennessee mines are meeting federal safety standards.
“I am grateful to Gov. Lee, and our House leadership team for asking me to carry this legislation,” Cepicky said in the prepared statement. “Our miners are the backbone of Tennessee’s economy, and we must ensure their safety as they work to provide for themselves and their families.”
House Bill 925 advanced out of the House Finance, Ways and Means Subcommittee this week. It will now head to the Calendar and Rules Committee where it will be scheduled for a vote on the House floor.
The new measure is part of Gov. Bill Lee’s legislative package for the year. Traditionally sponsored by the House Majority Leader and Assistant Majority Leader, Cepicky was selected for the role.
“Rep. Cepicky is a strong advocate for Tennessee’s miners, and he is committed to their safety,” said Republican House Leader William Lamberth. “I know he will do a great job getting this bill passed, and I look forward to working with him on this important issue.”
According to the Tennessee Department on Environment and Conservation the state’s mineral industry contributed nearly $1.268 billion in product value in 2016. It is the the leading producer of ball clay in the nation out of five producing states.
In 2015 the total direct and indirect economic impact was more than $4.9 billion, affecting nearly 28,000 jobs, according to the state.
A resident of Culleoka, Cepicky is a the former Maury County Republican Party chairman and a former Maury County commissioner.
“I appreciate Representative Cepicky’s willingness to guide this measure through the House,” said Republican Assistant Leader Ron Gant. “It will have a tremendous impact on safety within our mining industry, and I look forward to the governor signing it into law.”