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 smaller than three acres that have a greenbelt classification under the Agricultural, Forest and Open Space Land Act of 1976.

The bill aims to reduce regulatory burdens on small-scale farming operations, thereby promoting agricultural development in Tennessee. It is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, emphasizing the importance of supporting local agriculture while maintaining certain environmental protections for larger operations.