Tennessee Senate Bill SB1371

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/23
• Failed: 3/8/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 70, relative to hunting.

Impact

If enacted, SB1371 is expected to significantly impact wildlife management practices and hunting regulations in Tennessee. By implementing a structured system for permit allocation, the bill aims to ensure a fair and organized process that encourages participation in the quota elk hunts while also promoting sustainable hunting practices. Additionally, it modifies existing fee structures by requiring only a minimal application fee for a quota elk hunt permit, which could make participation more accessible for hunters without imposing heavy financial burdens.

Summary

Senate Bill 1371 aims to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 70, to establish a new system for managing quota elk hunt permits. The bill introduces a preference pool and an open pool for the drawing of these permits. The preference pool allows individuals who apply and qualify to accumulate preference points each year, which grants them additional entries into the permit drawing, thus favoring long-term applicants. Conversely, the open pool allows any qualified individual a singular entry, thereby diversifying the opportunity for various hunters to participate in elk hunting.

Contention

Opposition to SB1371 has emerged mainly due to concerns regarding the implications of establishing a preference system for permit allocation. Critics argue that such a system could disproportionately benefit long-time participants over new or less experienced hunters, potentially limiting access to the sport for individuals who may have less time to accumulate preference points. Furthermore, there is skepticism about whether the funding mechanisms outlined in the bill, which require that fees be designated solely for elk management and conservation, will adequately meet the needs of wildlife resources in Tennessee.