A bill in Tennessee aims to elevate the offense of blocking a road from a misdemeanor to a felony.
According to Sen. Brent Taylor, R-Memphis, the main objective of the bill is to prevent vehicles from obstructing traffic and causing potentially hazardous situations. The bill would also encompass protests that result in street blockades.
According to Taylor, there is a significant issue with drivers blocking interstates and intersections in order to engage in what they refer to as drifting, which involves spinning donuts. This behavior not only disrupts traffic in four-way intersections but also poses a serious threat to other motorists. Taylor highlighted that these drivers often go to the extent of brandishing firearms while hanging out of their car windows, further intensifying the terror experienced by innocent motorists who are simply stuck in traffic and unaware of the situation unfolding around them.
Senate Bill 2570 successfully cleared the Senate Judiciary Committee with a solid 7-2 vote. The bill will now move forward to the Senate Finance, Ways, and Means Committee for further consideration. According to the bill’s fiscal note, the state can expect an annual expenditure of $241,000 due to the additional costs associated with incarceration.
The bill also provides individuals with the ability to take legal action in the event of property damage caused by road blockages.
According to Sen. Sara Kyle, a Democrat from Memphis, it is important to consider the broader implications of the bill, including its potential impact on protests that involve blocking roadways. Kyle emphasized that the right to protest is protected under the First Amendment.
Taylor responded by firmly stating that no individual possesses the legal authority or entitlement to violate the law, regardless of their First Amendment rights.
A Class D felony carries a minimum prison sentence of two years and a maximum fine of $5,000. If SB 2570 is approved, it will become effective on July 1.
Several state legislatures, including Washington, have proposed bills that aim to impose penalties for obstructing roads during protests.
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