House Bill 2017, also known as Senate Bill 2028, amends various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated to clarify the authority of the Tennessee Fish and Wildlife Commission regarding the regulation of wildlife hunting practices. The bill introduces a new subsection to Section 39-17-1314, stating that local governments, including cities and counties, are prohibited from regulating the manner and means of taking wildlife, such as the discharge of firearms during lawful hunting. This authority is reserved for the Fish and Wildlife Commission, which will continue to set rules and proclamations under its delegated powers.

Additionally, the bill adds a new subdivision to Section 70-4-107(c), which explicitly authorizes individuals who are lawfully hunting to use the methods approved by the commission, including discharging firearms in designated areas during the hunting season. This provision ensures that hunters can operate within the framework established by the commission while maintaining compliance with existing laws. The act is set to take effect upon becoming law, emphasizing the importance of public welfare in its implementation.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 39-17-1314, 70-4-107(c), 70-4-107