Tennessee Senate Bill SJR0902

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/29/24
• Failed: 3/12/24

Caption

A RESOLUTION to propose an amendment to Article XI of the Constitution of Tennessee, relative to the right to food.

Impact

If passed, SJR0902 could significantly alter agricultural regulations within the state. It would empower individuals to cultivate and harvest food on land designated for various uses, including residential and agricultural zones, counteracting potential zoning restrictions. Such a change aims to enhance food security and agricultural autonomy among residents. However, it mandates that individuals respect existing legal frameworks concerning property rights, ensuring that food acquisition practices do not infringe on others' rights.

Summary

Senate Joint Resolution 902 (SJR0902) seeks to propose an amendment to Article XI of the Tennessee Constitution, addressing the inherent rights of individuals concerning food. The core assertion of the bill is that all individuals possess an unalienable right to save and exchange seeds, as well as to consume and produce food of their choosing, provided they do not violate property rights or public land regulations. This amendment would solidify a constitutional guarantee related to food autonomy, which has become a pertinent issue given the increasing relevance of food sovereignty debates across various states.

Contention

Notably, the resolution has sparked discussions over its implications for local governance and environmental stewardship. Opponents of the bill have raised concerns about potential conflicts with zoning laws that are designed to manage land use effectively within communities. They argue that granting expansive rights to individuals in food production could undermine local authorities' ability to regulate food safety and zoning ordinances, which are essential for maintaining community standards and preventing misuse of land resources. Furthermore, the bill's failure to pass in the Senate Judiciary Committee may reflect underlying tensions between agricultural interests and regulatory oversight in Tennessee.