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Tennessee Enforces One-Year Driving Suspensions for Teen Bullies

Juvenile courts are imposing year-long license revocations alongside restricted permits for essential travel after the law took effect July 1.

The Tennessee State Capitol in Nashville, Tennessee, on February 10.
Scott Payne, outreach and support manager for the Contact Care Line.
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Overview

  • Since July 1, juvenile courts have begun enforcing mandatory one-year driving suspensions for minors convicted of bullying or cyberbullying.
  • First-time offenders can seek restricted licenses for essential activities, requiring application within 10 days, a $20 fee, testing and judicial approval.
  • The bipartisan bill, sponsored by State Rep. Lowell Russell, passed with overwhelming support in both chambers of the Tennessee Legislature.
  • Supporters say revoking driving privileges deters youth bullying; critics argue penalties should be paired with interventions addressing underlying causes.
  • The law builds on 2024 revisions that clarified bullying definitions to curb violence and suicide risks linked to harassment among young people.