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HB 2550

Game and Fish Laws - As enacted, enacts the "Hunting for Heroes Act"; creates the Tennessee national guard sportsman license. - Amends TCA Title 70, Chapter 2.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by William Lamberth

Tennessee creates specialized hunting license for National Guard members, potentially offering preferential terms to boost military recruitment or retention while affecting state wildlife funding.

Comp. became Pub. Ch. 856
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Bill Summary · HB 2550

Legislative bill overview

HB 2550, titled the "Hunting for Heroes Act," creates a specialized hunting license category for Tennessee National Guard members. The bill amends Tennessee's game and fish laws (TCA Title 70, Chapter 2) to establish this new sportsman license designation with specific provisions for eligible military personnel.

Why is this important

Hunting licenses generate significant revenue for state wildlife management and conservation programs. This bill would carve out a new license category, potentially affecting revenue streams while offering benefits to an active military population. The policy signals how states balance public resource access with recognition of specific service groups.

Potential points of contention

  • Revenue impact: Creating a special license category (whether discounted, free, or with different regulations) could reduce funding for wildlife management and habitat conservation that license fees typically support
  • Eligibility and administration: The bill's specifics on who qualifies, how verification occurs, and whether benefits extend to spouses, retired members, or only active-duty personnel remain unclear from the introduction
  • Fairness questions: Some may question whether one military service branch receives distinct benefits not offered to veterans from other services, first responders, or other public servants

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

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