A new law in Tennessee aims to combat bullying by targeting teenagers where it may hurt the most: their ability to drive. Effective as of Tuesday, the legislation permits courts to suspend the driver’s licenses of minors found guilty of bullying or cyberbullying for up to a year. “I thought that the driver’s license piece would be pretty important to get their attention,” said State Representative Lowell Russell, the bill’s sponsor, in an interview with CNN’s affiliate WVLT.
The measure, which passed with overwhelming bipartisan support, has been hailed by advocates as a significant step in addressing a pervasive issue. However, questions linger about whether the law sufficiently tackles the root causes of bullying. While the legislation provides a stern penalty, it also offers some leniency 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.
Understanding the New Law
The process for obtaining a restricted license 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. Judicial approval is also required, which will specify exactly when and where they are permitted to drive.
Scott Payne, a manager for Contact Care Line, a Knoxville-based social services organization, expressed support for the initiative. “I think it’s great that the state is stepping up to try to do something about bullying,” Payne told WVLT. However, he also emphasized the need for measures that go beyond penalties. “I would like to see, going forward, movement towards working with the bullies,” he said.
Addressing the Root Causes
Payne highlighted that bullies are often products of their environment and suggested that understanding their backgrounds could be key to addressing the issue. “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.”
This 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. The state has been proactive in trying to create safer environments for students, though challenges remain in effectively implementing these laws.
Historical Context and Future Implications
The announcement comes as part of a broader national conversation about how best to address bullying in schools. Across the United States, schools and lawmakers have experimented with various approaches, from educational programs to stricter disciplinary measures. Tennessee’s decision to link driving privileges to behavior is a novel approach that could serve as a model for other states.
According to a study by the National Center for Education Statistics, about 20% of students ages 12-18 experienced bullying nationwide in 2021. The impact of bullying is far-reaching, affecting mental health, academic performance, and overall well-being. By focusing on driving privileges, Tennessee hopes to implement a deterrent that resonates with teenagers.
“I certainly hope it’s a move that helps people seek help,” Payne said. “Seeking help is a strength, not a weakness.”
As the law takes effect, its success will likely be measured by a decrease in reported bullying incidents and an increase in awareness and intervention programs. The move represents a commitment to not only punish negative behavior but also to encourage a cultural shift towards understanding and prevention.
Meanwhile, educators and policymakers will be watching closely to see if the law’s implementation leads to meaningful change. The hope is that by addressing the issue from multiple angles, including punitive and rehabilitative measures, Tennessee can create a safer environment for all students.
