House Bill 500 amends Tennessee Code Annotated to introduce new regulations regarding activities on public waters. Specifically, it adds a new subsection (h) to Section 69-9-216, which establishes that it is a violation for individuals to engage in activities, such as fishing, that obstruct the use of public access or launching areas beyond the typical time required for launching and retrieving recreational boats. Additionally, the bill prohibits swimming, fishing, or other activities that interfere with the intended use of docks or cause damage to docks, boats, or marinas.
The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, emphasizing the importance of maintaining access and safety in public water areas. The penalties for violations are outlined in Section 69-9-219, ensuring that there are consequences for actions that disrupt public access or damage property.
Statutes affected: Introduced: 69-9-216