Environment (Wildlife)

HB 2017 prevents local governments (cities, counties, towns) from regulating how wildlife is taken, including firearm discharge during lawful hunting. It clarifies that only the Tennessee Fish and Wildlife Commission sets rules and proclamations for hunting methods, amending Tennessee Code Sections 39-17-1314, 70-1-206, and 70-4-107. The bill ensures hunters using Commission-approved methods during designated seasons can legally hunt with firearms in areas designated by the Commission. This shifts regulatory authority from local entities to the Commission, taking effect immediately upon enactment.

SB 1750 prevents Tennessee's Department of Environment and Conservation from blocking public water utilities (like city or county water systems) from pumping or withdrawing water from natural sources for drinking water, unless federal law specifically requires it. The bill allows the department to prohibit such water use only if mandated by federal laws like the Safe Drinking Water Act or Endangered Species Act, and requires them to provide written notice citing the exact federal law. This directly affects water utilities and the state department by limiting the department's authority to restrict water access for drinking water services. The law takes effect July 1, 2026, and applies to permit renewals and ongoing operations.