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SB 1591

Traffic Safety - As introduced, imposes state and local litigation taxes on a person who violates the prohibition against using a wireless telecommunications device or stand-alone electronic device while operating a motor vehicle; removes the ten-dollar cap on court costs imposed for such violations. - Amends TCA Section 55-8-199.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Ferrell Haile

Increases penalties for distracted driving by adding litigation taxes and removing the $10 court cost cap, but failed House passage with 37-48 vote.

Subst. for comp. HB.
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 1591

Legislative bill overview

SB 1591 would increase financial penalties for distracted driving violations by imposing state and local litigation taxes on offenders and removing the current $10 cap on court costs. The bill modifies Tennessee's existing prohibition on using wireless devices while driving by making violations more costly to prosecute and adjudicate.

Why is this important

Distracted driving causes thousands of accidents and fatalities annually. This bill attempts to address the problem through increased financial disincentives, which proponents argue could deter unsafe behavior. However, the bill failed to pass the House in its recent vote (37-48), indicating significant legislative opposition.

Potential points of contention

  • Regressive impact: Increased fines disproportionately burden low-income drivers who may face greater financial hardship from higher penalties, potentially raising equity concerns
  • Enforcement and effectiveness: Questions about whether higher financial penalties actually reduce distracted driving behavior compared to other interventions like education or technology solutions
  • Court cost structure: Removing the $10 cap without clear limits on how high court costs could go creates uncertainty about total financial liability for violators
  • Local variation: Allowing local jurisdictions to impose separate litigation taxes could create inconsistent penalties across Tennessee counties

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

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