Tennessee House Bill HB1204

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/25
• Refer: 2/12/25
• Refer: 3/26/25
• Refer: 4/9/25
• Refer: 4/14/25
• Refer: 4/15/25
• Chaptered: 5/13/25
• Passed: 5/13/25

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39 and Title 55, relative to driving under the influence of an intoxicant.

Impact

The implications of HB 1204 on state laws include the introduction of oral fluid tests as an acceptable method for measuring intoxication levels in addition to existing blood and breath tests. This change could streamline the process for law enforcement officers during DUI stops, enabling them to administer tests more efficiently. The bill also increases the penalties for individuals who refuse to submit to testing, thereby aiming to deter non-compliance and encourage more individuals to cooperate with law enforcement. As these amendments take effect, they are expected to contribute to a significant impact on the enforcement of DUI regulations across Tennessee.

Summary

House Bill 1204 aims to amend Tennessee's laws concerning driving under the influence of intoxicants. The legislation modifies several existing sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated that govern procedures and penalties associated with DUI offenses. Key updates include provisions for administering oral fluid tests and enhancing penalties for refusal to comply with breath or blood tests. The changes intend to strengthen law enforcement's ability to enforce DUI laws and improve public safety on the roads. Overall, the proposed bill seeks to modernize the state's approach to combating intoxicated driving.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1204 appears to be mostly positive among supporters who argue that enhancing the enforcement of DUI laws will lead to safer roads and reduced incidents of intoxicated driving. Proponents, including law enforcement and public safety advocates, believe that the bill addresses critical gaps in existing laws that complicate the enforcement of DUI regulations. However, some concerns have been raised regarding the potential implications for personal freedoms and the accuracy of new testing methods, which could lead to debates about civil liberties and due process among certain groups.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 1204 focus on the balance between public safety and individual rights. While the intention behind the bill is to reduce DUI offenses, critics argue that imposing stricter penalties for refusal to submit to tests may infringe on personal liberties. Additionally, there are discussions regarding the reliability and accuracy of oral fluid tests compared to traditional methods. As the legislature debates the bill, these contentious issues highlight the ongoing struggle to find effective solutions that uphold both public safety and individual rights in matters related to law enforcement.