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SB 2648

Motor Vehicles - As introduced, increases from 10 to 15 the number of days from the date of an order suspending or revoking a commercial driver license that a petition may be filed to appeal the decision. - Amends TCA Title 55.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Kerry Roberts

Tennessee bill extends commercial driver license appeal deadline from 10 to 15 days, giving suspended/revoked drivers more time to challenge license actions.

Failed in Senate Transportation and Safety Committee
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Bill Summary · SB 2648

Legislative bill overview

SB 2648 extends the appeal window for commercial driver's license (CDL) suspensions or revocations from 10 days to 15 days in Tennessee. This gives CDL holders five additional days to file a petition challenging the state's decision to suspend or revoke their driving privileges.

Why is this important

Commercial driver's licenses are essential credentials for people in trucking and transportation industries—losing one directly impacts employment and income. The extended timeline could be meaningful for drivers who need more time to gather documentation, consult legal counsel, or understand their options before filing an appeal.

Potential points of contention

  • Burden on enforcement: Longer appeal windows may delay final license actions and create administrative backlog for the Department of Safety, extending periods of uncertainty for both drivers and employers
  • Equity concerns: A 50% time extension (10 to 15 days) may still be insufficient for drivers without ready access to legal resources or time off work, raising questions about whether the increase meaningfully improves fairness
  • Reasoning for the specific increase: The bill provides no explanation for why 15 days is the optimal threshold rather than 12, 14, 20, or another number, suggesting the choice may be arbitrary

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

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