State passes new laws for TWRA

NASHVILLE, TN. (WLAF)- As of July 1, a number of new laws went into effect in Tennessee. WLAF will be highlighting some of those bills. Today, is animals and the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA).

SB2133

As enacted, adds starvation resulting in death of a livestock animal to the types of conduct that constitute the Class E felony of aggravated cruelty to a livestock animal, when done in a depraved and sadistic manner without justifiable or lawful purpose.

SB2354

As enacted, authorizes a person to possess a raccoon without the payment of the $150 personal possession permit fee if the raccoon is obtained from a legal source and has been vaccinated; the raccoon is non-native and was not captured from the wild; and a possession permit for the raccoon has been issued by TWRA.

SB2173

Amends TCA Title 70, Chapter 9. As introduced, requires the executive director of the Tennessee wildlife resources agency to post a list of areas within the state that allow the use of off highway motor vehicles, including the acreage of the area and the estimated length of the trails, on the commission’s website.

SB2238

Amends TCA Title 70, Chapter 2. As enacted, enacts the “Hunting for Heroes Act”; creates the Tennessee national guard sportsman license.

SB2597

Amends TCA Title 70. As enacted, authorizes the executive director of the wildlife resources agency to enter into agreements with local law enforcement agencies for the purpose of enforcing wildlife management laws and rules; creates a criminal offense for feeding black bears under certain circumstances.

CLICK HERE to view additional laws passed. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED 7/8/2026-6AM)