Tennessee House Bill HB2849

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/24
• Refer: 2/5/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 55, Chapter 21, Part 1 and Title 55, Chapter 4, relative to registration plates issued for persons with disabilities.

Impact

If enacted, HB 2849 will significantly impact how registration plates for individuals with disabilities are designed and issued in Tennessee. The addition of the national motto on these plates reflects a policy shift that aims to incorporate patriotic symbols into everyday governmental processes. The law would require the commissioner of revenue to maintain a dual inventory of plates: those with and without the national motto, which could influence both the costs associated with production and distribution as well as the administrative burden on the department.

Summary

House Bill 2849 aims to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Title 55, Chapters 21 and 4, concerning the issuance of registration plates for persons with disabilities. The bill proposes that registration plates issued for private passenger motor vehicles under certain provisions will contain the national motto. This change will take place once the existing inventory of plates is dissolved, ensuring that a sufficient number of plates reflecting the national motto are made available to the department of revenue.

Sentiment

Overall, the sentiment surrounding HB 2849 appears to be supportive among proponents who view the inclusion of the national motto as a means of honoring national heritage and pride. Advocates may argue that this aligns with broader movements to promote national identity within public services. Conversely, there may exist concerns regarding the prioritization of such symbolic elements in registration processes over potential practical issues faced by individuals with disabilities, such as accessibility and awareness of resources available.

Contention

Notably, the discussions surrounding HB 2849 could lead to contention regarding the implications of enforcing a national motto on disability plates. Critics might express concern that incorporating national symbols into registration plates could detract from the primary purpose of these plates, which is to designate vehicles used by individuals with disabilities for reasons of parking access and highway privileges. Additionally, questions could arise about the appropriateness of government resources being allocated towards such symbolic changes rather than addressing more pressing issues related to the disabled community.