Tennessee House Bill HB0353

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/20/23
• Refer: 1/30/23
• Refer: 2/15/23
• Refer: 2/21/23
• Engrossed: 3/9/23
• Enrolled: 3/15/23
• Passed: 3/23/23
• Chaptered: 3/28/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39 and Title 55, relative to the transportation of loose items in open beds or trailers.

Impact

The bill aims to enhance public safety by imposing stricter regulations on how items, specifically ladders, are transported in open beds or trailers. The introduction of this law is expected to educate drivers on the importance of securing their cargo, thereby potentially reducing the number of accidents caused by loose items falling onto roadways. This law addresses a specific safety concern following incidents linked to improperly secured items, emphasizing the state's commitment to road safety and public welfare.

Summary

House Bill 353, also known as the 'Sergeant Chris Jenkins Law', was introduced to amend the Tennessee Code regarding the transportation of loose items in open beds or trailers. The bill makes it an offense for a person operating a motor vehicle to allow a ladder to fall onto the roadway and cause a motor vehicle accident. If such a violation leads to death or bodily injury, it escalates from a Class C misdemeanor to a Class A misdemeanor, thereby increasing the legal repercussions for negligence in securing transporting items.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 353 appears to be positive, with support coming from various stakeholders who emphasize the need for safer road conditions. Advocates for road safety view the bill as a necessary step to prevent accidents and enhance the overall safety of public roadways. The urgency of the matter is underscored by its association with the tragic story of Sergeant Chris Jenkins, which reinforces the sentiment that stricter laws are needed.

Contention

While there seems to be a consensus on the need for improved safety regulations, some discussions raised concerns about the practicality of enforcing such laws, especially regarding the classification of misdemeanors. Critics might argue about the potential for over-regulation or challenges in monitoring compliance. However, these contentions did not appear to heavily influence the bill's passage, as it garnered unanimous support during the third consideration vote.