Senate Bill 281, sponsored by Watson, amends various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated to address regulations concerning agricultural activities. Specifically, the bill introduces a new provision that exempts farming activities involving topsoil, rock removal, or pond construction from oversight by the Department of Environment and Conservation, provided these activities take place on properties less than three acres in size and classified as greenbelt under the Agricultural, Forest and Open Space Land Act of 1976.

This legislation aims to reduce regulatory burdens on small-scale farming operations, promoting agricultural development while maintaining certain land classifications. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, emphasizing the importance of supporting local agriculture and easing restrictions for farmers operating within designated greenbelt areas.