Tennessee House Bill HB0810

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/4/25
• Refer: 2/6/25
• Refer: 3/4/25
• Refer: 3/11/25
• Refer: 4/2/25
• Refer: 4/8/25
• Chaptered: 4/29/25
• Passed: 4/29/25

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 55, relative to utility terrain vehicles.

Impact

If enacted, HB 0810 would enhance the regulatory framework surrounding the operation of utility terrain vehicles statewide. This involves not only stricter safety requirements such as mandatory helmet usage but also new layers of compliance, with penalties for violations categorized as Class C misdemeanors. Local governments would retain some authority, as the bill allows them to impose additional safety regulations where deemed necessary. Despite these benefits, some concerns have been expressed regarding the practical implications of enforcing these new requirements across the diverse terrains and use cases for UTVs.

Summary

House Bill 0810 seeks to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Title 55, to regulate utility terrain vehicles (UTVs) more consistently across the state. The bill defines utility terrain vehicles broadly, including low-speed and medium-speed vehicles, as well as various classes of off-highway vehicles. Key provisions involve updated registration requirements, liability insurance mandates, age restrictions for operators, and safety mandates such as helmet usage. These regulations are aimed at increasing safety for UTV operators and passengers, especially focusing on young operators under the age of 21.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 0810 appears to be mixed. Supporters argue that the bill is a necessary step towards enhancing vehicle safety and protecting riders, particularly younger operators who might not fully understand the risks involved. Detractors, however, raise concerns about the potential overreach of the state's authority, cautioning that overly stringent regulations might deter UTV usage and negatively impact recreational activities. The discussions highlight a tension between public safety interests and the desire for personal freedom in vehicle operation.

Contention

Key points of contention in the debate over HB 0810 revolve around the balance between safety and personal freedom. Critics question whether the proposed helmet laws and registration requirements may disproportionately impact recreational users who might be more accustomed to less restrictive regulations. The bill's age restrictions for operators have also sparked discussions about youth mobility and the implications of imposing such regulations on families involved in outdoor activities. The resolution of these debates will significantly impact how effectively the bill can be implemented while still considering the interests of constituents who utilize utility terrain vehicles.