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SB 1913

Traffic Safety - As introduced, authorizes the seizure and impoundment of a motor vehicle used in drag racing, based on probable cause, for a maximum of 72 hours; authorizes owner of motor vehicle to contest seizure in administrative or judicial hearing. - Amends TCA Title 6; Title 7; Title 16; Title 40 and Title 55, Chapter 10, Part 5.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Brent Taylor

Authorizes 72-hour vehicle seizure based on probable cause for suspected drag racing, with owner right to contest via hearing.

Held on desk.
#trafficsafety
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 1913

Legislative bill overview

SB 1913 authorizes law enforcement to seize and impound vehicles suspected of being used in drag racing based on probable cause, with a maximum impoundment period of 72 hours. The bill provides vehicle owners with the right to contest the seizure through administrative or judicial hearings and amends multiple sections of Tennessee code related to traffic safety and vehicle regulations.

Why is this important

Illegal street racing creates public safety hazards, causing injuries, deaths, and property damage in communities. This bill attempts to create a deterrent by allowing temporary vehicle seizure without requiring a criminal conviction, though the 72-hour window limits the economic impact on owners compared to longer impoundment periods used in other states.

Potential points of contention

  • Fourth Amendment concerns: Seizure based on "probable cause" alone (rather than conviction) raises questions about due process, particularly whether the 72-hour window provides adequate owner protections or if "probable cause" for drag racing is sufficiently clear to avoid targeting lawful driving
  • Definitional ambiguity: The bill doesn't clearly define what constitutes "drag racing" or how officers distinguish it from legal acceleration, potentially leading to subjective enforcement or false seizures
  • Economic impact on innocent parties: Vehicle owners (including those not driving) face temporary loss of property and mobility; questions remain about liability if seizures are later deemed improper, and whether 72 hours adequately compensates for genuine hardship

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

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