Tennessee Senate Bill SB0537

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/25

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 11, Chapter 14, Part 1 and Title 70, relative to Reelfoot Lake guide licenses.

Summary

SB0537 creates a new state licensing framework for hunting, fishing, and trapping guides who work specifically at Reelfoot Lake in Lake and Obion Counties. The bill defines a “guide” as a compensated person assisting hunters, fishers, or trappers who must hold a guide license under the new section added to Tennessee law. The measure directs the Tennessee Fish and Wildlife Commission to create and issue Reelfoot Lake guide licenses and to adopt rules implementing the program. Those rules must require Reelfoot-specific guides to demonstrate knowledge of the lake and its hazards, reflecting the bill’s focus on safe navigation and local expertise in a unique and potentially difficult environment.

Impact

The bill amends Tennessee Code Annotated by adding a new definition of “guide” in Title 70 and creating a new licensing authority in Title 70, Chapter 2, Part 2 for Reelfoot Lake guides. It gives the Tennessee Fish and Wildlife Commission rulemaking authority to establish licensing standards and knowledge requirements, which would affect individuals and businesses providing paid guide services on Reelfoot Lake and could create a new regulatory compliance obligation for that local industry.

Sentiment

The bill appears generally supportive and noncontroversial in tone, emphasizing Reelfoot Lake’s ecological significance, sporting heritage, and the need for safety and local expertise. No committee transcripts or recorded votes were provided, so there is no direct evidence of opposition or debate in the available record. The statutory findings suggest the bill is framed as a targeted public-safety and resource-management measure rather than a broad policy change.

Contention

The main potential point of contention is whether a Reelfoot-specific licensing requirement is necessary or whether it adds regulatory burden to local guide services. Any concerns would likely come from guides, outfitters, or local businesses that may face new licensing standards, fees, or knowledge-testing requirements, while supporters would likely include wildlife managers, safety advocates, and those seeking to preserve the lake’s unique guiding conditions. Because no discussion transcripts are available, specific objections or amendments cannot be identified from the record provided.