A new Tennessee law aims to combat bullying by targeting teenagers where it may hurt the most: revoking their ability to drive. This legislation, which took effect on Tuesday, allows courts to suspend for up to a year the driver’s licenses of minors found guilty of bullying or cyberbullying.
“I thought that the driver’s license piece would be pretty important to get their attention,” State Rep. Lowell Russell, who sponsored the bill, told CNN’s affiliate WVLT. The measure, which passed with overwhelming bipartisan support, has been hailed by supporters as a significant step to address a pervasive problem. Meanwhile, some questions remain about whether the law goes far enough to tackle the root causes of bullying.
Details of the Legislation
The law allows some flexibility for first-time offenders. Teens who lose their licenses may apply for a restricted one, allowing them to drive to essential destinations such as school, work, or church. However, the process involves several steps: teens must apply within 10 days of the court’s decision, pay a $20 application fee, meet age requirements, and pass necessary driving tests. They must then obtain judicial approval, which will specify exactly when and where they are permitted to drive.
“I think it’s great that the state is stepping up to try to do something about bullying,” Scott Payne, a manager for Contact Care Line, a Knoxville-based social services organization, told WVLT. Still, Payne urged the need to consider measures that go beyond penalties.
“I would like to see, going forward, movement towards working with the bullies,” he said. “Bullies aren’t just born. They don’t just pop up. They’re products of their environment. So we need to be talking with them and finding out what’s going on in their lives that’s bringing about this type of behavior from them.”
Historical Context and Previous Efforts
The new legislation builds on Tennessee’s previous efforts to combat bullying. In 2024, lawmakers clarified the state’s definitions of bullying and cyberbullying, aiming to prevent the violence and suicides often linked to these behaviors. This move represented a proactive approach to a problem that has plagued schools and communities nationwide.
According to the National Center for Educational Statistics, about 20% of students aged 12-18 experienced bullying nationwide in 2023. Cyberbullying, in particular, has seen a sharp increase with the rise of social media platforms, making legislative measures like Tennessee’s crucial in addressing the issue.
Expert Opinions and Future Implications
Experts believe that while punitive measures like revoking driving privileges can act as a deterrent, a more comprehensive approach is necessary to address the underlying causes of bullying. Educational programs that foster empathy and conflict resolution skills are often cited as effective tools in preventing bullying.
“I certainly hope it’s a move that helps people seek help,” Payne said. “Seeking help is a strength, not a weakness.” This sentiment underscores the importance of creating supportive environments where both victims and perpetrators of bullying can receive the assistance they need.
As Tennessee implements this new law, the state will likely serve as a case study for other regions considering similar measures. The effectiveness of the law will depend on its enforcement and the state’s ability to balance punitive actions with rehabilitative support for young offenders.
The announcement comes as states across the U.S. are grappling with how best to address bullying in schools. As the conversation continues, Tennessee’s approach may inspire a broader dialogue about the role of legislation in shaping social behavior among youth.
