Tennessee House Bill HB2141

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/24
• Refer: 1/31/24
• Refer: 2/7/24
• Refer: 2/21/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 70, relative to wildlife resources.

Impact

The amendments proposed by HB 2141 will specifically affect statutes governing the enforcement of wildlife laws, enhancing penalties for violations and making certain offenses classified as misdemeanors. The bill reduces some fine thresholds while increasing others, with the intention to provide clearer consequences for violators. This shift aims at reinforcing the enforcement of wildlife regulations, ensuring that offenders face more substantial penalties for serious breaches, thus potentially improving compliance with wildlife protection laws.

Summary

House Bill 2141 aims to amend certain sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically relating to wildlife resources. The bill proposes modifications to how violations of wildlife laws are treated, particularly adjusting the fines and classifications of misdemeanors associated with these violations. It seeks to streamline penalties related to various wildlife offenses, most notably by raising the maximum fines applicable across several offenses, enforcing a more standardized approach to penalties under the existing wildlife laws.

Contention

While the bill appears to have a straightforward regulatory intent, debates around its passage may arise concerning the increased financial burden placed on individuals fined under the new structure. Legislators may particularly discuss whether the raised fines create undue hardship for recreational hunters or those involved in wildlife-related activities. Supporters may argue for the need to ensure substantial penalties act as a deterrent against illegal activities impacting wildlife, while opponents may voice concerns about the appropriateness of the increased penalties and their implications for wildlife enthusiasts and local economies reliant on such activities.