Tennessee House Bill HB2848

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/24
• Refer: 2/5/24
• Refer: 3/12/24
• Refer: 3/19/24
• Chaptered: 4/17/24
• Passed: 4/17/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39 and Title 43, relative to animals.

Impact

The bill is expected to reinforce state laws concerning animal rights, particularly in how they relate to beekeeping practices. By explicitly criminalizing the unauthorized control over bees and beekeeping materials, HB2848 serves to protect beekeepers from potential theft or loss of their property. This legislative change is significant for local beekeepers and agricultural stakeholders, as it offers them greater legal backing to safeguard their assets and encourages responsible practices within the industry.

Summary

House Bill 2848 introduces amendments to Tennessee's animal laws, specifically focusing on the regulation of beekeeping. The bill establishes penalties for individuals who acquire or control bees, or related structures and equipment, without the owner's consent, with the intent to deprive the owner of these assets. By incorporating these provisions into the Tennessee Code Annotated, the bill aims to bolster protections for beekeeping operations and enhance legal recourse for property theft related to beekeeping resources.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HB2848 appears to be positive, especially among beekeepers and animal rights advocates who view the bill as a necessary measure to protect their interests. The broad support witnessed during the voting phase indicates a consensus on the importance of safeguarding beekeeping resources. However, there could be underlying concerns about the enforcement of these new regulations and whether they will adequately address the issues they intend to mitigate.

Contention

While the bill has gained support, there may be discussions regarding the extent of penalties proposed and how they will be enforced. Some stakeholders might express concerns about the impact this legislation could have on hobbyist beekeepers who may not have the same level of legal protection under existing laws. The balance between protecting property rights and ensuring fair treatment of all beekeeping practitioners could be a notable point of contention as the bill moves forward.