AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39 and Title 55, relative to road rage.
Summary
SB1204 creates a new part in Tennessee’s criminal code titled the “Anti-Road Rage Act of 2024.” It makes it a criminal offense for a person who is operating a motor vehicle, or riding as a passenger in one, to recklessly discharge a firearm, classifying that conduct as a Class E felony. It also makes it a Class A misdemeanor for such a person to recklessly brandish or display a firearm.
The bill is aimed at firearm-related conduct occurring in or around vehicles, particularly behavior associated with road rage incidents. It does not create a new civil remedy or regulatory program; instead, it adds specific criminal penalties to Tennessee law and takes effect July 1, 2025.
Impact
The bill would amend Title 39 of the Tennessee Code by adding a new part to Chapter 17, thereby expanding the state’s criminal offenses related to firearms and dangerous conduct in vehicles. It would apply to both drivers and passengers in motor vehicles as defined in Title 55, and would expose offenders to felony or misdemeanor prosecution depending on whether the conduct involves reckless discharge or reckless brandishing/display of a firearm.
Sentiment
The bill’s framing suggests a public-safety focus and likely appeals to lawmakers concerned about gun violence and aggressive driving. Because no committee transcripts or recorded votes are provided, there is no direct evidence of debate or bipartisan support/opposition in the available record. Based on the text alone, the measure appears intended as a targeted response to road rage incidents involving firearms.
Contention
The main policy issue is the scope of criminal liability for firearm conduct in vehicles, especially the use of the term “recklessly,” which can be debated as either appropriately broad for deterrence or potentially overinclusive. Another likely point of contention is the distinction between a felony for discharging a firearm and a misdemeanor for brandishing or displaying one, as well as whether the bill duplicates existing weapons or assault laws rather than creating a necessary new offense. No specific opposing or supporting arguments are documented in the provided materials.