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HB 1714

Safety, Dept. of - As introduced, directs the department to develop and design for a driver who has a developmental or intellectual disability a blue envelope that holds the driver's essential documents, including a driver license, vehicle registration, and contact card. - Amends TCA Title 38; Title 52 and Title 55.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Johnny Shaw

Creates a standardized blue envelope system for Tennessee drivers with intellectual disabilities to organize essential documents and emergency information for traffic stops and emergencies.

Placed on s/c cal Transportation Subcommittee for 3/17/2026
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Bill Summary · HB 1714

Legislative bill overview

HB 1714 directs Tennessee's Department of Safety to create and design a standardized blue envelope system for drivers with developmental or intellectual disabilities to organize and carry essential documents, including driver's licenses, vehicle registration, and emergency contact information. The bill amends three sections of Tennessee Code Annotated to implement this program.

Why is this important

This addresses a practical safety and accessibility concern for individuals with intellectual disabilities during traffic stops or emergencies, when officers and emergency responders need quick access to critical information and context about the driver. A standardized visual system could reduce misunderstandings during law enforcement interactions and help first responders understand the driver's needs more quickly.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and implementation: The bill requires state resources to design, produce, and distribute blue envelopes, but doesn't specify funding mechanisms or which agency bears costs
  • Privacy and stigmatization concerns: A highly visible blue envelope may identify individuals with disabilities, potentially raising concerns about privacy and whether the visible marking could lead to differential treatment by law enforcement
  • Voluntariness and uptake: The bill doesn't clarify whether participation is voluntary or mandatory, and there's no mechanism described to ensure drivers are aware of or able to access the program
  • Effectiveness questions: The practical benefit depends on law enforcement training and recognition of the system, which the bill doesn't explicitly require

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

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