Tennessee House Bill HB2322

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/2/26
• Refer: 2/20/26
• Refer: 3/4/26

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 1; Title 4; Title 8; Title 11; Title 12; Title 35; Title 36; Title 38; Title 39; Title 40; Title 41; Title 43; Title 44; Title 47; Title 49; Title 50; Title 53; Title 55; Title 56; Title 57; Title 62; Title 63; Title 65; Title 66; Title 67; Title 68; Title 69; Title 70 and Title 71, relative to bees.

Impact

The impact of HB2322 on state laws includes increased accountability for the management of beekeeping activities in Tennessee. By mandating an annual report on fees and finances related to beekeeping regulations, the bill aims to ensure transparency in how funds are generated and utilized within the agricultural sector. This aligns with broader initiatives to support agriculture, environmental conservation, and maintain healthy bee populations, which are crucial for pollination and local ecosystems.

Summary

House Bill 2322 aims to amend multiple sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated pertaining to the regulation and management of bees. It specifically includes provisions that require the commissioner of agriculture to report annually on the revenue obtained from fees, fines, and proceeds associated with the sale of seized properties under the chapter governing bees. This reporting is directed to both the Senate energy, agriculture and natural resources committee and the corresponding House committee responsible for agriculture, thereby enhancing legislative oversight on beekeeping revenues and compliance.

Contention

While the bill primarily focuses on beekeeping provisions, potential points of contention may arise concerning how the additional reporting requirements affect local beekeepers and agricultural practices. Critics may argue that increased regulation and reporting could impose burdensome costs on small-scale beekeepers. On the other hand, proponents of the bill may emphasize the necessity of such measures to safeguard bee populations and promote responsible beekeeping, essential for food security and agricultural productivity.