TN HB0938

Allows hunting whitetail deer with bait on private or leased land if the hunter possesses a valid deer bait privilege license, creating an exception to Tennessee's general prohibition on baited hunting

Sets license fees at $50 for residents and $100 for non-residents, with all members of a hunting party required to have the license even if otherwise exempt from hunting license requirements

Authorizes the wildlife agency to suspend deer baiting privileges without refund on a county, regional, or statewide basis to prevent disease spread among wildlife

Requires the commission to promulgate rules by August 1, 2026 establishing acceptable bait types, quantities, and conditions of use

Takes effect July 1, 2025; violations of hunting device restrictions remain a Class C misdemeanor