Tennessee Senate Bill SB1299

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/6/25
• Engrossed: 3/13/25
• Enrolled: 3/28/25
• Passed: 4/11/25
• Chaptered: 4/30/25

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 55-10-417 and Section 55-10-425, relative to ignition interlock devices.

Impact

The legislation modifies existing laws to allow military personnel to temporarily suspend the ignition interlock requirements during deployment, which is particularly significant for maintaining compliance without penalizing active duty service members. This adjustment could lead to broader implications for how states accommodate the needs of military members in relation to public safety laws and could serve as a precedent for similar measures in other jurisdictions.

Summary

Senate Bill 1299 amends Tennessee Code regarding ignition interlock devices, particularly focusing on provisions for individuals who are active members of the United States Armed Forces. The bill attempts to address situations where service members may be deployed outside their state of residence for an extended period, impacting their ability to comply with ignition interlock usage requirements. By allowing these individuals to request a toll on their ignition interlock usage period, the bill aims to provide flexibility for service members while still maintaining regulatory oversight necessary for public safety.

Sentiment

Sentiment around SB 1299 appears generally supportive, particularly among those advocating for military service members’ rights and welfare. Legislators recognize the necessity of ensuring that service members are not unfairly affected by laws that may not consider their unique circumstances during deployments. However, some may raise concerns about the potential for misuse of the tolling request process and how it may affect the overall effectiveness of ignition interlock programs designed to reduce drunk driving incidents.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support, notable contention arises around the accountability mechanisms and whether adequate safeguards are in place to prevent the potential abuse of provisions allowing tolling of ignition interlock requirements. Concerns include ensuring that individuals do not exploit this exception and that public safety is not compromised. The balance between supporting military personnel and maintaining safety measures, particularly concerning driving under the influence, continues to be a vital point of discussion in legislative circles.