Tennessee Senate Bill SB2783

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 69, Chapter 9 and Title 70, relative to powers of the wildlife resources agency.

Impact

The impact of SB2783 on state laws would fundamentally enhance the protections afforded to private property owners within the state of Tennessee. By requiring a search warrant for entry by wildlife officials, the bill seeks to establish a balance between environmental enforcement and personal property rights. This amendment is expected to lead to a more cautious approach by the agency, likely reducing instances of unannounced entries that could infringe on the privacy and autonomy of property owners.

Summary

Senate Bill 2783 seeks to amend specific sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated, particularly Title 69, Chapter 9 and Title 70, which pertain to the powers of the wildlife resources agency. The bill proposes a restriction on the agency's ability to enter private properties without a valid search warrant. This move is aimed at protecting property rights while still allowing the agency to enforce wildlife laws. The proposed amendments establish clear conditions under which agency staff can enter private property, ensuring that property owners are adequately notified beforehand, barring emergency situations or the observation of a criminal act.

Contention

Points of contention surrounding SB2783 may arise from differing views on wildlife management and property rights. Advocates for increased oversight of wildlife resources may argue that such restrictions could hinder enforcement efforts, complicating the ability to respond swiftly to wildlife-related issues on private lands. Conversely, property rights advocates support the bill for its emphasis on obtaining warrants before entering private spaces and preserving the integrity of property ownership. This balance reflects broader principles of individual rights versus the necessity of law enforcement actions in environmental management.