Tennessee Senate Bill SB2748

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 40 and Title 55, Chapter 10, relative to reckless driving.

Impact

If enacted, SB2748 would significantly alter the legal ramifications surrounding reckless driving in Tennessee. By increasing the penalties for second or subsequent offenses, the legislation seeks to deter reckless driving behaviors and encourage drivers to adhere to safer driving practices. Furthermore, the mandated completion of a driver education course for repeat offenders indicates a proactive approach to addressing underlying issues that contribute to reckless driving incidents.

Summary

SB2748 aims to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Title 40 and Title 55, Chapter 10, concerning reckless driving. The bill proposes to categorize a first offense of reckless driving as a Class A misdemeanor, while a second or subsequent offense would escalate to a Class E felony. Additionally, the bill mandates that individuals convicted of a second offense must complete a driver education course sanctioned by the Department of Safety. This strategic classification aims to enhance road safety and impose stricter penalties on repeat offenders.

Contention

The bill may face contention regarding the severity of its penalties. While proponents argue that heightened consequences for repeat offenders are necessary to improve road safety, critics may contend that labeling a second offense as a felony could disproportionately impact individuals' lives and stigmatize them, possibly leading to further legal and social repercussions. The requirement of vehicle seizure for second offenders could also raise legal concerns relating to property rights and due process.