House Bill 2215, also known as Senate Bill 2597, amends Tennessee wildlife laws to enhance the enforcement of regulations concerning human-wildlife interactions, particularly regarding black bears. The bill allows the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency to enter into agreements with local law enforcement agencies to assist in enforcing wildlife laws and rules set by the fish and wildlife commission. These agreements will focus on public safety issues related to wildlife interactions, such as the feeding of wildlife, and will require local agencies to report regularly on their enforcement activities.

Additionally, the bill establishes a new offense for feeding black bears in areas where such feeding is prohibited by the commission. Knowingly feeding a black bear will be classified as a Class B misdemeanor, incurring a minimum fine of $250. If a person unknowingly feeds a black bear due to leaving food unsecured, the first offense will result in a written warning, while subsequent offenses will also incur a minimum fine of $250. This legislation is set to take effect on July 1, 2026, and will apply to actions occurring on or after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 70-1-305