Bill > SB0829

This bill amends Tennessee criminal law by creating a new Class B misdemeanor offense related to traffic stops. Specifically, the bill makes it illegal for a driver to intentionally refuse a law enforcement officer's request to exit their vehicle during a lawful traffic stop. The new provision will be added to the existing criminal code under Title 39, Chapter 16, and will take effect on July 1, 2025. The law is designed to enhance officer safety and compliance during traffic stops by making it a criminal offense to disobey an officer's order to exit the vehicle. If a driver violates this new provision, they could face misdemeanor charges, which typically involve potential fines and/or a short jail sentence. The bill does not specify additional details about the circumstances under which an officer might request a driver to exit their vehicle, leaving that determination to the discretion of law enforcement within the bounds of established legal standards for traffic stops.

Justice

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SB0829&ga=114