The Senate Energy, Agriculture, and Natural Resources Committee convened on March 26, 2025, to discuss several key legislative proposals, including a significant amendment regarding animal chiropractic care and two bills related to land purchases and environmental management.

The meeting began with a focus on Senate Bill 128, which aims to establish educational standards for chiropractic physicians and veterinarians who wish to perform animal chiropractic work. The amendment, which was adopted unanimously, stipulates that practitioners must receive certification from their respective boards after completing a nationally recognized training program. This program includes 210 hours of training and an examination, ensuring that only qualified individuals can provide chiropractic care to animals.

During the discussion, representatives from both the veterinary and chiropractic communities presented their views. Veterinarians expressed concerns about the potential for misdiagnosis and the implications of allowing chiropractors to treat animals without adequate veterinary oversight. Dr. Frankie Loughler, a mixed animal practitioner, emphasized the importance of proper diagnosis, arguing that chiropractors lack the extensive training required to identify underlying health issues in animals. He highlighted a case where a misdiagnosis could have led to severe consequences for an animal.

Conversely, chiropractors, represented by Dr. Richard Cole and Tiffany Stevens, defended their qualifications and the benefits of chiropractic care for animals. They argued that their training equips them to assess musculoskeletal issues and that they would refer cases requiring veterinary intervention back to licensed veterinarians. They stressed the collaborative nature of their work with veterinarians and the need for a legal framework to support their practice.

Following the discussions, the committee moved on to Senate Bill 519, which mandates that foreign entities purchasing land in Tennessee must file with both federal and state authorities. An amendment to the bill was adopted, allowing the attorney general to collect civil penalties at their discretion. The bill passed with a vote of 7 ayes and 2 noes.

The final item on the agenda was Senate Bill 520, which expands the service area of the West Tennessee River Basin Authority to include additional counties. This bill aims to enhance the authority's ability to restore and maintain natural streams and floodplains. It passed unanimously.

In conclusion, the committee's discussions highlighted the ongoing debate between veterinarians and chiropractors regarding animal chiropractic care, while also addressing important legislative measures concerning land purchases and environmental management in Tennessee. The next steps for these bills will involve further review and potential voting in the full Senate.