A new law in Tennessee, which took effect on July 1st, allows courts to revoke the driver’s licenses of teenagers for up to a year if convicted of bullying or cyberbullying other children. This measure, sponsored by State Rep. Lowell Russell, R., was passed with significant bipartisan support, reflecting a growing consensus on the need to address youth bullying. The law represents a shift in policy, linking bullying behavior to tangible consequences and signaling a broader effort to tackle the issue in schools and communities.
Russell, who has been a vocal advocate for stronger anti-bullying measures, emphasized the long-term mental health consequences of bullying. He cited recent cases, including a Tennessee teen who took his own life after being outed as bisexual on social media, as motivation for the law. ‘Most acts of violence and suicides are noted as the result of being bullied,’ he stated. ‘I simply got tired of nothing being done to stop bullying.’ The law is intended to deter potential bullies and encourage a safer environment for students.
The law also includes provisions for restricted licenses for first-time offenders, allowing them to maintain driving privileges for essential activities such as school and work. However, these licenses do not extend to driving to after-school events or social gatherings. Offenders must apply for these restricted licenses within 10 days of the court decision and pay a $2,000 application fee. The Tennessee Department of Safety will be responsible for enforcing these restrictions, ensuring that those found guilty of bullying are unable to drive on suspended licenses.
Supporters of the law argue that it serves as a necessary step in protecting youth and preventing long-term trauma. Scott Payne, a manager at Contact Care Line, a Knoxville-based social services organization, praised the law as a positive development. ‘I would like to see, going forward, movement towards working with the bullies,’ Payne said. ‘Bullies aren’t just born. They’re products of their environment. 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.’ While the law represents a significant policy change, it also highlights the ongoing challenges in addressing bullying and its impact on mental health among adolescents.