SB1794

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39 and Title 44, relative to dangerous dogs.

Introduced·1/20/26

SB1794 amends Tennessee law to define dangerous dogs and establish procedures for their registration, impoundment, and potential destruction.

SB1794 amends Tennessee Code to redefine "dangerous dog" as one that makes an unprovoked attack causing bodily injury outside an enclosure. Owners must register their dangerous dogs, provide proof of liability insurance or financial responsibility, and keep the dogs restrained or in a secure enclosure. Animal control authorities must maintain a public registry of dangerous dogs. The bill outlines procedures for impounding and potentially destroying dangerous dogs, including appeals processes. The act takes effect July 1, 2026.

Included in complete analysis

  • Overview
  • Core Provisions
  • Implementation
  • Impact
  • Legal Framework
  • Critical Issues

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Where it stands

Current
In committee
Next
Committee decision

Sponsors

0
1
R
Democratic CaucusRepublican Caucus

Roll Call Votes

SENATE JUDICIARY COMMITTEE: Recommended for passage with amendment/s, refer to Senate Calendar Committee Ayes 8, Nays 1 PNV 0

8 Yea

RRRDRRDR

1 Nay

R

History

Mar 26

Senate

Re-refer to S. Cal Comm

Mar 24

Senate

Placed on Senate Regular Calendar for 3/26/2026

Mar 17

Senate

Recommended for passage with amendment/s, refer to Senate Calendar Committee Ayes 8, Nays 1 PNV 0