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Tennessee Law Makes Feeding Black Bears a Misdemeanor

4/16/2026

33 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Tennessee General Assembly passed Senate Bill 2597, making it a misdemeanor to feed black bears in designated areas.
Rep. Fred Atchley and Sen. Steve Southerland sponsored the bill.
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency will collaborate with local law enforcement to enforce the measure.
Subsequent violations carry a fine of at least $250.
The law takes effect July 1.

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Story summary

The Tennessee General Assembly passed Senate Bill 2597, making it a misdemeanor to feed black bears in designated areas.
Rep. Fred Atchley and Sen. Steve Southerland sponsored the bill.
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency will collaborate with local law enforcement to enforce the measure.
Subsequent violations carry a fine of at least $250.
The law takes effect July 1.