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SB 2009

Naming and Designating - As introduced, designates the bog turtle as an official state reptile. - Amends TCA Section 4-1-321.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Sara Kyle

Designates the bog turtle as an official state reptile alongside the eastern box turtle to raise awareness and support conservation, with no new regulatory or fiscal impact.

Rcvd. from S., held on H. desk.
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Bill Summary · SB 2009

Summary of Bill: SB 2009 (Session 114) – Tennessee

Title

Naming and Designating – As introduced, designates the bog turtle as an official state reptile. Amends Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 4-1-321.

Purpose and Intent

  • Designate the bog turtle (Glyptemys muhlenbergii) as an official state reptile of Tennessee.
  • Recognize the bog turtle as part of Tennessee’s biodiversity and emphasize the species’ conservation importance.

Key Provisions

  • Section 4-1-321 is amended to replace the existing language with a list of official state reptiles:
    1. Eastern box turtle, Terrapene carolina carolina
    2. Bog turtle, Glyptemys muhlenbergii
  • Effective date: The act takes effect upon becoming law, under the public welfare clause.

Who/What is Affected

  • State designation only: Official state reptiles designation applies to:
    • Eastern box turtle (Terrapene carolina carolina)
    • Bog turtle (Glyptemys muhlenbergii)
  • The change does not impose new regulatory requirements on individuals or entities; it formalizes a symbolic state designation.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • Legislative History:
    • Introduced in 2026; co-sponsored by Senator Sara Kyle.
    • Passed the Senate (Ayes 32, Nays 0) and moved through the House/Committee steps as shown in the action history.
    • Referred to appropriate committees, with final passage and transmission to the House prior to becoming law.
  • Fiscal Impact:
    • Fiscal Note indicates no significant fiscal impact.
    • Designation is administrative; no new regulatory programs or statutory obligations are created.
    • Any educational material updates can be accomplished within existing resources during the next scheduled review cycle.

Additional Context

  • Rationale highlights the bog turtle’s status as one of North America’s smallest turtles and its precarious population, especially in the southern range, due to habitat loss and poaching.
  • The bill underscores the importance of public awareness and conservation without introducing new regulatory mandates.

Bottom Line

SB 2009 designates the bog turtle as an official state reptile alongside the eastern box turtle. It is primarily symbolic, aimed at raising awareness and supporting conservation efforts, with no anticipated significant fiscal impact or regulatory changes.

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

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