Bill > HB0442

This bill amends Tennessee law to provide specific regulations for privately owned antique emergency vehicles, which include vintage ambulances, fire department vehicles, and law enforcement vehicles that meet antique motor vehicle criteria. The bill allows these vehicles to be used for community and educational events like fairs, festivals, and school displays, and permits the installation and operation of era-appropriate emergency lights, sirens, and bells under carefully controlled circumstances. Owners must obtain written authorization from the local law enforcement agency or fire department chief and keep this authorization with them, and they can only operate emergency lights, sirens, or bells while the vehicle is stationary at public events, part of an organized parade, or on private property with the owner's permission. The bill also ensures that operating an antique emergency vehicle under these specified conditions does not constitute criminal impersonation of an emergency vehicle, providing legal protection for vintage emergency vehicle enthusiasts. The new regulations take effect on July 1, 2025, and are designed to allow preservation and public display of historic emergency vehicles while maintaining safety and preventing misuse.

Transportation and Infrastructure

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB0442&ga=114