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SB 829

Criminal Offenses - As introduced, creates the Class B misdemeanor of intentionally refusing a law enforcement officer's request to exit from a motor vehicle during a lawful traffic stop. - Amends TCA Title 39, Chapter 16.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Joey Hensley

Tennessee would criminalize as a Class B misdemeanor intentionally refusing to exit a vehicle during lawful police traffic stops, expanding officer authority during stops.

Passed on Second Consideration, refer to Senate Judiciary Committee
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 829

Legislative bill overview

SB 829 would create a new Class B misdemeanor offense in Tennessee for intentionally refusing to exit a vehicle when a law enforcement officer lawfully requests it during a traffic stop. The bill amends Tennessee's criminal code (TCA Title 39, Chapter 16) to add this specific crime to the state's misdemeanor statutes.

Why is this important

This bill directly affects police authority during traffic stops and creates criminal liability for a specific behavior. It could increase enforcement tools for officers but also raises questions about the scope of police commands and citizen compliance obligations during routine traffic interactions.

Potential points of contention

  • Constitutional questions: Courts in other jurisdictions have addressed whether refusing to exit a vehicle is inherently criminal or whether it depends on officer safety concerns and specific circumstances; this bill makes refusal automatically illegal without such nuances
  • Defining "lawful" requests: The bill requires the stop be "lawful," but disputes often arise over whether specific stops were actually lawful, potentially creating enforcement inconsistencies
  • Scope expansion: Critics may argue this significantly expands police authority by criminalizing non-violent non-compliance, while supporters contend it improves officer safety during stops

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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