Tennessee Senate Bill SB1717

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/10/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 55, Chapter 50, Part 3, relative to the issuance of driver licenses.

Impact

The passage of SB1717 could have considerable implications for non-English speaking residents in Tennessee or individuals whose primary language is not English. By mandating that exams be exclusively in English, the bill could create barriers for such individuals seeking to obtain a driver license, potentially impacting their mobility and employment opportunities. Advocates for this change argue it promotes a uniform standard for drivers, ensuring that all applicants have a comprehensive understanding of road signs and rules that are coded in English.

Summary

SB1717 is proposed legislation aiming to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically targeting the issuance of driver licenses. The bill stipulates that all written examinations administered to applicants for both standard and intermediate driver licenses must be conducted solely in English. This new requirement means that applicants will not be permitted to utilize any translation dictionaries, electronic devices, or interpreters during the examination process, which could significantly influence how certain applicants prepare for and take these tests.

Contention

Opposition to the bill centers around concerns regarding inclusivity and accessibility. Critics argue that enforcing English-only examinations may disproportionately affect immigrants and individuals who may already face challenges in learning a new language. They suggest that this bill could lead to increased difficulties in obtaining a driver license for non-native speakers, hindering their integration into the community and economic participation. The discourse around SB1717 reflects broader societal debates regarding language, inclusion, and the rights of individuals in their pursuit of obtaining essential documents like driver licenses.