SB2597 amends Tennessee wildlife laws to allow local law enforcement to assist in enforcement and adds penalties for feeding black bears.

SB2597 amends Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 70, to allow the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency to enter into agreements with local law enforcement agencies to assist in enforcing wildlife laws, particularly those related to public safety and human-wildlife interactions. These agreements require local agencies to report when they exercise enforcement authority under the agreement. Additionally, the bill adds a new offense for knowingly feeding black bears in areas where such feeding is prohibited by the commission, with fines of at least $250 for violations.

SB2597 amends Tennessee wildlife laws to allow local law enforcement to assist in enforcement and adds penalties for feeding black bears.

SB2597 amends Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 70, to allow the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency to enter into agreements with local law enforcement agencies to assist in enforcing wildlife laws, particularly those related to public safety and human-wildlife interactions. These agreements require local agencies to report when they exercise enforcement authority under the agreement. Additionally, the bill adds a new offense for knowingly feeding black bears in areas where such feeding is prohibited by the commission, with fines of at least $250 for violations.