The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) presented a proposed hunting and fishing license fee increase to the Joint Government Operations Committee on June 18, 2025, to address a significant budget deficit caused by a 30%+ Consumer Price Index rise since the last fee adjustment in 2015.

The increase, approved by the Tennessee Fish and Wildlife Commission (TFWC), aimed to generate $12 million to offset rising expenses.

However, after committee members expressed concerns about the financial burden on constituents and committed to finding alternative funding sources, TWRA Executive Director Jason Maxedon withdrew the fee increase proposal. Current license fees will remain unchanged, and TWRA will collaborate with the General Assembly to develop sustainable funding models, drawing inspiration from other states.

To manage the deficit, TWRA has cut costs by leaving staff positions vacant, reducing publications, canceling research funding, and deferring maintenance.

A separate rule to increase boat registration fees was approved and will take effect July 1, 2025.