Tennessee House Bill HB1260

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/23
• Refer: 2/2/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 39-14-206 and Title 70, relative to the taking of aquatic creatures.

Impact

The primary legal change introduced by HB1260 is the modification of existing regulations governing trotlines in Tennessee. By enforcing stricter guidelines on the setup and maintenance of trotlines, the bill aims to mitigate risks associated with fishing activities. Violations of these regulations, such as using incorrectly marked or hazardous trotlines, will now be subject to criminal penalties, indicating a significant shift in how such violations are managed by law enforcement. Moreover, the bill grants civil liability protections to individuals who, in good faith, act to remove or alter dangerous trotlines.

Summary

House Bill 1260 addresses regulations concerning the taking of aquatic creatures in Tennessee. The bill amends current laws regarding the usage of trotlines and establishes specific requirements to ensure safe fishing practices. For instance, it dictates how trotlines should be set, marked, and checked, with strict limitations on their usage to prevent hazards to public safety. This proposed legislation aims to balance fishing activities while protecting aquatic life, thereby promoting responsible fishing practices among Tennessee residents.

Contention

While the bill has been positioned as a necessary measure for public safety and responsible fishing, some stakeholders may raise concerns regarding the potential overreach of regulations on fishing practices. Fishers who prefer traditional or less regulated methods of trotline fishing might oppose the increased requirements and penalties established by HB1260. Additionally, the implications for law enforcement’s role in monitoring and enforcing these provisions could be debated, as it may stretch resources or create conflicts with local fishing practices.