Tennessee House Bill HB0867

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/23
• Refer: 2/2/23
• Refer: 3/1/23
• Refer: 3/15/23
• Refer: 4/17/24
• Chaptered: 5/13/24
• Passed: 5/13/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 57, Chapter 4, relative to the sale of alcoholic beverages on a commercial passenger bus.

Impact

The enactment of HB 0867 would bring significant changes to the Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 57, Chapter 4. It would allow licensed commercial passenger bus companies to sell alcoholic beverages under specific conditions, thereby legalizing and regulating such sales on buses that meet certain criteria. This implies a shift in the regulatory landscape concerning alcohol sales in public transportation, potentially increasing revenue for these companies and enhancing the passenger experience on long-distance trips.

Summary

House Bill 0867 is a legislative proposal in Tennessee that seeks to amend the existing laws related to the sale of alcoholic beverages on commercial passenger buses. The bill specifically defines what constitutes a 'commercial passenger bus company' and lays out the parameters under which these companies can operate with regard to alcohol sales. It sets stipulations regarding the sale of alcoholic beverages, particularly focusing on where and when these sales can occur, the qualifications of the staff serving alcohol, and the restrictions against selling alcoholic beverages in certain situations.

Sentiment

Overall sentiment around HB 0867 appears to be cautiously optimistic among stakeholders who advocate for enhanced passenger services. Supporters emphasize the economic benefits and potential increase in tourism as travelers enjoy alcohol services en route. However, there are concerns regarding public safety and the potential for misuse of alcohol on transit vehicles, indicating a divided opinion among community members, transportation experts, and law enforcement agencies.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the implementation and oversight of alcohol sales on buses, particularly concerning how to ensure that such sales do not lead to public disturbances or safety hazards. Critics of the bill worry that allowing alcohol sales could lead to issues such as overconsumption among passengers, especially given the limited space and regulation of behavior in a moving vehicle. Strategies for effective monitoring during service, as well as the adequacy of existing transportation regulations to manage these changes, remain significant topics of debate.