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SB 2354

Tennessee Fish & Wildlife Commission - As introduced, decreases from 48 hours to 24 hours the time within which an injury requiring medical attention that is caused by captive wildlife must be reported to the Tennessee wildlife resources agency. - Amends TCA Title 39; Title 44 and Title 70.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Joey Hensley

Tennessee accelerates mandatory injury reporting from captive wildlife to wildlife agency from 48 hours to 24 hours, improving incident tracking and response speed.

Transmitted to Governor for action.
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Bill Summary · SB 2354

Legislative bill overview

SB 2354 reduces the mandatory reporting timeline for injuries caused by captive wildlife from 48 hours to 24 hours. The bill amends Tennessee's criminal code, animal control regulations, and wildlife management statutes to enforce faster notification to the Tennessee Fish and Wildlife Resources Agency when someone is injured by an animal in captivity.

Why is this important

Faster reporting enables wildlife agencies to respond more quickly to dangerous animals, document incidents promptly while evidence is fresh, and potentially prevent repeated injuries. This also creates a clearer regulatory framework for facilities housing captive wildlife and improves public safety tracking related to exotic and dangerous animals.

Potential points of contention

  • Enforcement burden: The 24-hour window may be difficult for injured individuals to meet, especially if they need immediate medical care or lack immediate access to reporting mechanisms
  • Facility compliance: Captive wildlife facilities may face stricter compliance requirements and potential penalties if reporting deadlines are missed, raising concerns about the practicality of 24-hour notification
  • Definition ambiguity: The bill doesn't clarify what constitutes "captive wildlife" (zoos, private collections, sanctuaries, research facilities) or whether all injuries or only serious ones trigger the requirement

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

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