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SB 2028

Game and Fish Laws - As enacted, clarifies that local governmental entities shall not regulate the manner and means of taking wildlife, including the discharge of a firearm while lawfully hunting, and that such taking is regulated pursuant to rules promulgated and proclamations issued by the fish and wildlife commission. - Amends TCA Section 39-17-1314; Section 70-1-206 and Section 70-4-107.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Adam Lowe

Prevents local governments from regulating hunting methods and firearm use during lawful hunting, reserving all such authority exclusively to the state Fish and Wildlife Commission.

Pub. Ch. 673
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Bill Summary · SB 2028

Legislative bill overview

SB 2028 establishes that local governments cannot regulate how wildlife is hunted or the methods used (including firearm discharge), reserving such authority exclusively for the state Fish and Wildlife Commission. The bill amends three Tennessee Code sections to clarify this jurisdictional division and prevent local ordinances from conflicting with state wildlife management rules.

Why is this important

This addresses a practical conflict where cities or counties might pass ordinances restricting hunting methods, firearm use during hunting season, or wildlife take in ways that contradict state regulations. The bill clarifies the regulatory hierarchy, ensuring consistent statewide hunting standards rather than a patchwork of local rules that could confuse hunters and complicate enforcement.

Potential points of contention

  • Local autonomy vs. state control: Municipalities lose ability to impose stricter local protections for urban/suburban wildlife management or firearm discharge safety in populated areas
  • Public safety concerns: Communities near suburban areas may lose tools to restrict hunting near residential zones or regulate firearm discharge for safety reasons
  • Environmental consistency: While uniformity has benefits, it prevents localities from addressing region-specific wildlife issues or urbanization impacts that differ across the state

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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