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Tennessee Advances Bill to Eliminate Raccoon Ownership Fee

3/31/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Tennessee lawmakers advance a bill to eliminate the state permit fee for owning a domesticated raccoon.
The bill is sponsored by Republican Senator Joey Hensley.
The measure would ease ownership for raccoons from licensed breeders.
Wildlife rescue expert Juniper Russo cautions against the belief raccoons can be trained like cats or dogs.
If passed, the bill would not change health and vaccination regulations.

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Story summary

Tennessee lawmakers advance a bill to eliminate the state permit fee for owning a domesticated raccoon.
The bill is sponsored by Republican Senator Joey Hensley.
The measure would ease ownership for raccoons from licensed breeders.
Wildlife rescue expert Juniper Russo cautions against the belief raccoons can be trained like cats or dogs.
If passed, the bill would not change health and vaccination regulations.