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HB 2030

Game and Fish Laws - As introduced, repeals statutory requirements related to raccoon hunting, thereby permitting the Tennessee fish and wildlife commission to regulate such activities through proclamations and rules. - Amends TCA Title 70, Chapter 4.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Jeremy Faison

Removes legislative restrictions on raccoon hunting, allowing Tennessee's wildlife commission to set hunting rules through administrative regulations instead of statute.

Transmitted to Governor for his action.
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Bill Summary · HB 2030

Legislative bill overview

HB 2030 removes specific statutory requirements governing raccoon hunting in Tennessee and grants the Tennessee Fish and Wildlife Commission authority to regulate raccoon hunting activities through proclamations and administrative rules instead. This shifts raccoon hunting regulations from fixed legislative language to flexible administrative procedures.

Why is this important

Raccoon hunting is a traditional recreational activity in Tennessee with economic and cultural significance. This change allows regulations to adapt more quickly to wildlife population changes and hunting conditions without requiring legislative action each time, but it also transfers regulatory power from elected legislators to appointed commission officials.

Potential points of contention

  • Democratic accountability: Regulations set by commission proclamations may be less transparent or subject to public input than legislative statutes, potentially limiting voter influence on hunting rules
  • Hunting community concerns: Current raccoon hunters may worry about unpredictable regulation changes if the commission alters rules frequently or without adequate stakeholder consultation
  • Scope of authority: The bill removes statutory "requirements" but doesn't specify which existing protections or standards must be maintained, creating ambiguity about the commission's regulatory limits

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

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