House Bill 1261, also known as Senate Bill 1325, aims to enhance the treatment of animals, specifically breeding pigs and calves raised for veal, under Tennessee law. The bill introduces a new section to the Tennessee Code Annotated that defines key terms such as "breeding pig," "calf raised for veal," and "enclosure." It establishes specific requirements for the confinement of these animals, prohibiting farm owners or operators from confining them in a manner that restricts their ability to lie down, stand up, extend their limbs, or turn around freely. Additionally, it sets minimum space requirements for enclosures, mandating at least 24 square feet of usable floor space per breeding pig and 43 square feet per calf raised for veal.

The bill outlines exceptions to these confinement rules for various circumstances, including medical research, veterinary treatment, transportation, and temporary confinement for animal husbandry purposes. Violations of the new provisions are classified as Class B misdemeanors, with fines ranging from $250 to $1,000 for each offense, and each animal confined in violation of the law constitutes a separate offense. Importantly, the bill clarifies that it does not override existing local, state, or federal animal welfare laws and allows local governments to enact more stringent regulations. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2030.