Tennessee House Bill HB2731

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/24
• Refer: 2/5/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 39-17-101 and Title 70, relative to creatures that are poisonous or venomous.

Impact

The enactment of HB2731 will lead to a clearer legal understanding of what constitutes poisonous versus venomous creatures, thereby directly affecting compliance and enforcement regarding how these animals are managed in Tennessee. The more precise terminology could assist in legal proceedings and inform the public better about potential dangers associated with venomous reptiles. Through delineating safe transport practices, the bill aims to enhance public safety and welfare, particularly concerning the handling of venomous snakes and other potentially dangerous reptiles.

Summary

House Bill 2731 seeks to amend existing Tennessee laws regarding the handling and transportation of creatures classified as poisonous or venomous. The primary change involves substituting the term 'poisonous' with 'venomous' in relevant sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated. Additionally, the bill introduces specific requirements for the transportation of venomous reptiles, including the type of container used and the labeling required for such transport. These amendments aim to clarify the legal definitions and improve safety measures surrounding venomous creatures in the state.

Contention

While there do not appear to be significant points of contention documented in the provided discussions on HB2731, it is crucial to note that changes to animal transportation laws can lead to unintended impacts or concerns among animal rights advocates or wildlife conservationists. Stakeholders may be concerned about how stricter regulations could affect the ownership and rescue of such animals or their ability to be transported for conservation efforts. Ensuring that the bill balances safety with the rights and responsibilities of animal owners will be essential for its acceptance.