Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

Tennessee Senate Bill SB2585

Introduced
1/31/24  
Engrossed
3/18/24  
Enrolled
4/19/24  
Passed
5/1/24  

Caption

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

Impact

If enacted, SB2585 would introduce Class B misdemeanor penalties for individuals holding a license plate flipper and Class A misdemeanor penalties for those involved in the manufacturing, selling, or distributing of such devices. The intent behind this legislation is to deter potential misuse of license plates which could facilitate unlawful activities, thereby aiming to improve public safety and the integrity of vehicle identification. Overall, it reflects a commitment to strengthen existing traffic laws and promote responsible vehicle ownership.

Summary

Senate Bill 2585 aims to amend the Tennessee Code to regulate the use of 'license plate flippers,' which are devices that allow motor vehicle operators to alternate between different license plates or hide a license plate from view. This legislation defines such devices and establishes criminal penalties associated with their purchase, possession, manufacturing, and distribution. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2024, focusing on promoting vehicle compliance and enhancing law enforcement capabilities in regulating motor vehicle registrations.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB2585 appears generally supportive among law enforcement and regulatory bodies, who view it as a necessary step to combat the potential for misuse of license plates. However, some skepticism may exist regarding the implication of additional criminal offenses on citizens, particularly those who may unintentionally possess such devices. The proposal is primarily framed within the context of enhancing public welfare and ensuring that motor vehicle regulations are upheld effectively.

Contention

Notable points of contention could arise regarding the broad definitions of what constitutes a license plate flipper and the potential consequences for individuals who may inadvertently come into possession of such devices. Questions may be raised about the enforcement of this new regulation and whether it disproportionately affects certain populations or situations. Moreover, discussions around the balance between increasing public safety and ensuring fair regulation may lead to further scrutiny during legislative sessions.

Companion Bills

TN HB2145

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

Previously Filed As

TN HB2145

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

TN SB1055

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 7; Title 16; Title 38; Title 40; Title 55 and Title 57, relative to expunction.

TN HB1257

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 7; Title 16; Title 38; Title 40; Title 55 and Title 57, relative to expunction.

TN HB0300

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 38; Title 40 and Title 55, Chapter 10, relative to license plate flippers.

TN SB0296

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 38; Title 40 and Title 55, Chapter 10, relative to license plate flippers.

TN HB1444

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 38; Title 39; Title 40; Title 41 and Title 55, relative to criminal law.

TN SB1349

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 38; Title 39; Title 40; Title 41 and Title 55, relative to criminal law.

TN SB1692

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 5; Title 6; Title 7; Title 39; Title 47; Title 48; Title 55; Title 56; Title 62; Title 66 and Title 67, relative to parking.

TN HB1731

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 5; Title 6; Title 7; Title 39; Title 47; Title 48; Title 55; Title 56; Title 62; Title 66 and Title 67, relative to parking.

TN SB0030

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39; Title 40; Title 54 and Title 55, relative to criminal offenses.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.