Tennessee HB2215 amends wildlife laws to prohibit feeding black bears in certain areas and outlines enforcement agreements with local law enforcement.

Tennessee HB2215 amends Title 70 of the Tennessee Code Annotated to prohibit feeding black bears in areas where the wildlife commission has banned such activity. Violators face a Class B misdemeanor charge, with fines starting at $250. The bill also mandates agreements between local law enforcement and the commission to assist with public safety issues related to human-wildlife interactions, including feeding black bears. These agreements must specify the laws and rules enforced and require regular reporting on citations issued. The law takes effect July 1, 2026.

Tennessee HB2215 amends wildlife laws to prohibit feeding black bears in certain areas and outlines enforcement agreements with local law enforcement.

Tennessee HB2215 amends Title 70 of the Tennessee Code Annotated to prohibit feeding black bears in areas where the wildlife commission has banned such activity. Violators face a Class B misdemeanor charge, with fines starting at $250. The bill also mandates agreements between local law enforcement and the commission to assist with public safety issues related to human-wildlife interactions, including feeding black bears. These agreements must specify the laws and rules enforced and require regular reporting on citations issued. The law takes effect July 1, 2026.