Legislature Tweaks DUI Law to Avoid Federal Funding Loss

NASHVILLE, TN — Lawmakers have approved the necessary changes to Tennessee's drunken-driving laws to keep the state in compliance with federal requirements and maintain $60 million in federal road funding.

This week's special session called by Gov. Bill Haslam came after the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration says a change made to Tennessee law last year put the state out of compliance with federal "zero tolerance" standards for drunk driving. Previously, drivers under the age of 21 with a blood-alcohol content of 0.02 or higher could be charged for DUI. The change kept that standard for drivers between 16 and 18 but raised the BAC for 18- to 20-year-olds to 0.08. Supporters of the change said it was an effort to stiffen DUI penalties.

After failing to find a compromise with the NHTSA or convincing the agency to allow Tennessee to have a grace period through January when the legislature's regular session begins, the governor acquiesced and called the General Assembly back into session. The Senate passed the required changes 31-1. The House vote was 85-2.

Once the legislature completes some housekeeping matters — the House is debating a resolution that congratulates other states for expanding Medicaid coverage and both chambers are considering a move to bill the federal government for the cost of the special session — the session will be adjourned.

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