Senate Bill 2597 amends Tennessee wildlife law by allowing the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency to enter into agreements with local law enforcement agencies. These agreements are specifically aimed at assisting with the enforcement of wildlife-related laws, rules, and proclamations, particularly concerning public safety issues related to human-wildlife interactions. The agreements must outline the specific laws that local agencies are authorized to enforce and require regular reporting to the executive director of the agency regarding any enforcement actions taken.

Additionally, the bill establishes a new offense related to feeding black bears in areas where such feeding is prohibited. Knowingly feeding a black bear in violation of this prohibition is classified as a Class B misdemeanor, with a minimum fine of $250. If a person unknowingly feeds a black bear due to leaving food or garbage unsecured, the first offense will result in a written warning, while subsequent offenses will incur the same minimum fine. The provisions of this act will take effect on July 1, 2026, and will apply to actions occurring on or after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 70-1-305