Naming and Designating - As introduced, designates the bog turtle as an official state reptile. - Amends TCA Section 4-1-321.
SB 2009 designates the bog turtle (*Glyptemys muhlenbergii*) as Tennessee's second official state reptile, amending Tennessee Code Annotated Section 4-1-321 to replace the previous single-reptile designation with a list including both the eastern box turtle and the bog turtle. This symbolic bill directly affects Tennessee's official state symbols but does not create new regulations, funding, or conservation programs. The legislation aims to raise public awareness about the bog turtle's endangered status - its southern population has declined by over 50% in two decades due to habitat loss and poaching - though it does not alter conservation efforts. The bill takes effect upon enactment.
Bill status
passed
3 of 5 stages cleared
Introduction
Feb 2026
Committee Review
Mar 2026
Senate Passage
Mar 2026
House Passage
Governor
Introduced Feb 2, 2026
Last action Mar 12, 2026
Floor votes
How they voted
This bill passed the Senate by voice vote (no roll call recorded).
Full legislative history
Actions timeline
Total actions
9
Key actions
3
Committee
3
Mar 9, 2026
Upper · Passed
Passed Senate, Ayes 32, Nays 0
upper
Mar 4, 2026
Lower · Passed
Recommended for passage, refer to Senate Calendar Committee
lower
Feb 25, 2026
Lower · Passed
Placed on Senate Energy, Ag., and Nat. Resources Committee calendar for 3/4/2026
lower
Feb 5, 2026
Committee
Passed on Second Consideration, refer to Senate Energy, Ag., and Nat. Resources Committee
upper
Feb 2, 2026
Introduced
Introduced, Passed on First Consideration
lower
1 primary · 0 co-sponsors
Sponsors
Role
Legislator
Party
State
District
P
Sara Kyle
DDemocratic
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