March 22, 2007
 

Thanks to all who have called their representatives and senators. I have heard from many who have received numerous requests for support of the ROW bill and the “Freedom of Choice” bill.

HB1335/SB0794 ROW BILL has passed the first two tests in the House. There was no opposition in Public Safety and Rural Roads subcommittee or the full Transportation committee. The bill has been assigned to the Budget Subcommittee for March 28th. In the Senate the bill was rolled until next Wednesday to get legal answers on a couple of questions.

HB1283/SB1511 “Freedom of Choice” has been passed out of the Senate Transportation Committee on a 7-1 vote, Rosalind Kurita was the lone “nay” vote. The bill has been sent to the Senate Calendar Committee. It may get detoured to Senate Finance. I will keep you all advised.

HB1536/SB101 “No Kids Under 12” There is still no movement on this bill!!  Thanks for the calls and e-mails to your legislators.

HB1974/SB1994- ATV Kid’s Helmet Bill This ATV helmet bill has run into several problems in Senate Transportation Committee but was finally passed out yesterday. I have worked with the sponsors on this bill and at this time private property citations are virtually amended out of the bill. At my recommendation, the bill has also been amended to include the “vented helmet” language as allowed for motorcyclists. Steve Southerland introduced this amendment. If the bill does pass, at least they will have the safer option of the vented helmet. With the rewritten bill and it’s amendments passing , the language on the legislature web site should be updated soon.  As of 10:45 yesterday morning, the bill looks nothing like what’s currently posted on the web site. The AMA is watching this bill but does not oppose it. With the right language this bill might pass but it will primarily be applicable in state recreation areas and those few public roads where ATV use is currently permitted. Law enforcement does not have authority to issue citations for motor vehicles on private property according to the department of safety.
 

WATCHING

HB0201/SB0550 – “Wheelie Bill” This bill has passed House Transportation and is on the regular calendar for 3/29/07 It has not had a hearing in the Senate.

HB0797/SB0108 HB0308/SB0944 HB0798/SB0796 – DUI/DWI Offenses - Requires ignition interlock device to be installed on all motor vehicles driven by DUI offenders. - Amends TCA Section 55-10-403. NO MOVEMENT ON THESE BILLS YET!

HB0481 Adds a $16 additional fee on every vehicle registered in TN. We are working to get an amendment to make the fee $8 or less based on limited usage and footprint compared to other vehicles.