DRIVERS are at risk of losing their licenses under a new law – and it’s not linked to their behavior on the roads.
The measure specifically impacts teens and they could be forced off the road for a year.
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Lawmakers are cracking down on youngsters who take part in bullying – either online or in person.
Teens under the age of 18 will be blocked from applying for a driver’s license if they have been convicted of such offenses.
Or, their license could be suspended, per The New York Times.
Drivers convicted for their first offense may be given some respite.
They will have to pay $20 to apply for a restricted license.
But, drivers will have to take required tests as part of the provisions.
A judge will decide the locations where they are able to drive.
This could be certain places such as a school or church.
The new law will impact drivers across Tennessee, and lawmakers have explained why they’re taking action.
“Bullying can cause long-term harm that results in mental health problems later in a person’s life,” Lowell Russell, a lawmaker, said.
The new law will see courts team up with the state’s Department of Safety to enforce the crackdown.
And, the measures came into force on July 1.
The stance has been welcomed by social services in the state.
“I think it’s great that the state is stepping up to try to do something about bullying,” Scott Payne told WVLT-TV.
But, he wants officials to commit to going further.
“Bullies aren’t just born. They just don’t pop up,” he warned.
Officials believe the law will be taken seriously as driving is considered a privilege.
Politicians in the state senate backed the law on a 26-0 vote.
Meanwhile, Democrats and Republicans in the state House of Representatives supported the law on a 85-10 vote.
Adam Lowe, a state senator, said licenses are “important” for teenagers.
LAW BACKED
David Ridings, a lawyer in Nashville, welcomed the new law.
“I love the premise behind this new law,” he told ABC News.
“There is no place for bullying in our society today.
“When you engage in bullying and/or cyber-bullying, you should absolutely lose that privilege. Good job Tennessee!
“More states should follow the example.”
Meanwhile, states are also cracking down on distracted driving.
Hands free laws have come into force in certain states, including Pennsylvania and Iowa.
Pennsylvania‘s Paul Miller’s Law came into force on June 5.
From June 2026, drivers will be hit with $50 fines if they are caught using their cell phone while driving.
Drivers have been warned that cell phone usage at stop lights is banned.
The U.S. Sun reported how drivers in Iowa will be hit with fines from January 2026 as part of the state’s hands-free law.
Drivers in Louisiana also risk being slapped with hefty fines under a new law set to come into force on August 1.
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