Tennessee House Bill HB2145

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/25/24
• Refer: 1/31/24
• Refer: 2/14/24
• Refer: 2/20/24
• Refer: 4/17/24
• Chaptered: 5/13/24
• Passed: 5/13/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39; Title 40 and Title 55, relative to license plates.

Impact

The bill, if passed, would criminalize the possession and distribution of license plate flippers, creating a new layer of regulation regarding vehicle identification and accountability. This legislative action seeks to enhance the enforcement capabilities of law enforcement agencies by discouraging the use of devices that facilitate illegal activities. With the penalties too, the bill establishes a framework that categorizes offenses based on their severity, which aims to deter criminal behavior related to the manipulation of license plates.

Summary

House Bill 2145 aims to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated concerning the regulation of license plates, specifically addressing the use of 'license plate flippers.' These devices, whether manual or electronic, are designed to alter the displayed license plate on a motor vehicle or to obscure the plate entirely. The bill enforces criminal penalties for individuals who manufacture, sell, or possess such devices, categorizing these offenses based on the degree of criminal negligence associated with the action. The proposed legislation marks a significant step to regulate technology that can be misused for purposes such as evading law enforcement or committing vehicle-related crimes.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 2145 appears to be cautiously supportive among legislators concerned about vehicle-related crimes facilitated by technological loopholes. Proponents argue that the bill is essential for upholding law and order on the roads, whereas opponents may raise concerns regarding the implications for vehicle owners and the potential for overreach in vehicle regulation. The general atmosphere in committee discussions reflects a balance between public safety interests and the necessity for reasonable vehicle regulation.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the practicality of enforcing the ban on license plate flippers and concerns from civil liberties advocates about the potential for misuse of the legislation. Questions arise regarding how effectively law enforcement can monitor and enforce penalties regarding such devices, alongside the implications for vehicle personalization and privacy. The balancing act between promoting public safety and respecting individual freedoms will likely be at the forefront of discussions as the bill moves through legislative channels.