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Bill > HB0559
TN HB0559
TN HB0559AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-8-199, relative to use of a wireless telecommunications device while operating a motor vehicle.
summary
Introduced
01/29/2025
01/29/2025
In Committee
02/05/2025
02/05/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
114th General Assembly
Bill Summary
As introduced, removes the prohibition on a person physically holding or supporting, with any part of the person's body, a wireless telecommunications device or stand-alone electronic device while operating a motor vehicle on a road or highway other than in a marked school zone or work zone; retains restrictions on activities such as texting on, reaching for, or watching or recording a video on such device while operating a motor vehicle on a road or highway. - Amends TCA Section 55-8-199.
AI Summary
This bill modifies Tennessee's existing law regarding the use of wireless telecommunications devices while driving, specifically changing restrictions on physically holding such devices. Under the new legislation, drivers would be prohibited from physically holding or supporting a wireless device only in work zones with present transportation workers or in marked school zones with active warning flashers, whereas the previous law had a broader prohibition. The bill also updates the penalty structure, establishing a $200 fine for holding a device in restricted zones, and maintaining a $50-$100 fine for other wireless device-related violations like texting or watching videos while driving. For third-time or accident-causing offenses, or violations in work or school zones, fines can increase to $100-$200, with potential additional court costs up to $10. These changes aim to provide more nuanced regulation of device use while driving, balancing safety concerns with driver convenience. The law is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, giving time for public awareness and implementation.
Committee Categories
Transportation and Infrastructure
Sponsors (1)
Last Action
Def. to Summer Study in Transportation Subcommittee (on 03/18/2025)
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB0559&ga=114 |
| Fiscal Note - HB0559 | https://www.capitol.tn.gov/Bills/114/Fiscal/HB0559.pdf |
| BillText | https://www.capitol.tn.gov/Bills/114/Bill/HB0559.pdf |
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