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SB 932

DUI Offenses - As enacted, creates a distance to drive program study committee to help determine the feasibility of implementing a distance to drive program that would facilitate reinstatement of suspended and revoked driver licenses for criminal defendants based on meeting the objectives set by the court and completing all the requirements set by the department of safety. - Amends TCA Title 16; Title 39; Title 40 and Title 55.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Paul Rose

Tennessee creates study committee to assess feasibility of allowing DUI offenders to regain driver licenses through court-supervised rehabilitation program meeting safety-set objectives.

Pub. Ch. 451
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Bill Summary · SB 932

Legislative bill overview

SB 932 establishes a study committee in Tennessee to evaluate the feasibility of creating a "distance to drive" program that would allow DUI offenders to regain suspended or revoked driver licenses by meeting court-ordered objectives and completing Department of Safety requirements. The bill amends multiple sections of Tennessee law governing DUI penalties and driver licensing.

Why is this important

Driver's license suspension is a significant collateral consequence of DUI convictions that can affect employment, education, and family obligations. This bill explores whether a structured rehabilitation pathway could balance public safety concerns with opportunities for offenders to demonstrate reform and reintegration—an issue affecting thousands of Tennesseans with DUI convictions annually.

Potential points of contention

  • Public safety vs. rehabilitation: Critics may worry that facilitating license reinstatement for DUI offenders—even with conditions—prioritizes offender rehabilitation over protecting public safety from repeat impaired drivers
  • Program design ambiguity: The bill creates a study committee rather than implementing a program, leaving unanswered questions about what specific "objectives" courts would set and what oversight mechanisms would ensure compliance
  • Equity concerns: Questions exist about whether wealthy defendants could more easily complete program requirements than low-income offenders, potentially creating disparate outcomes based on socioeconomic status

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

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