During the 2015 legislative term, Tennessee lawmakers have proposed two separate bills that address the use of alcohol. Designed with safety as a primary concern, Senate Bill 0699 and Senate Bill 0374 each address the consequences of what can happen when alcohol is misused. Similar House bills have been introduced as well.
Senate Bill 0699 attempts to lower the number of Driving Under the Influence offenses by banning third-time (or more) DUI offenders from purchasing alcohol. Those persons convicted of three DUI offenses will have a special indication on their driver’s license or state ID with the words “NO ALCOHOL SALES.” This particular bill was introduced in response to concern about a growing number of people who have been arrested for a third DUI offense in the state of Tennessee. Specifically, 751 received a third DUI offense in 2014; however, in 2015, that number is expected to grow to 900.
Senate Bill 0374 addresses a new form of intoxicant – crystalline and powdered alcohol. This particular bill would altogether ban crystalline and powdered alcohol in Tennessee, without qualification. Because these substances prove easily accessible and susceptible to abuse (specifically by mixing into food and beverages, with or without another person’s knowledge), Tennessee and a growing number of states have disallowed this new substance.
If these proposals are passed, Tennessee will have implemented innovative measures to attempt to regulate alcohol use within the state. Mr. Oberman extends his appreciation to Kaya Porter, second year UT law student, for her assistance in researching and editing this blog post.
If accused of driving under the influence, it is important to immediately consult with a Tennessee DUI attorney familiar with Tennessee DUI laws and the issues surrounding DUI defense. For more information about the crime of DUI or about your legal rights with respect to an allegation of driving under the influence of an intoxicant, the lawyers at Oberman & Rice are available by calling (865) 249-7200. You may also wish to visit www.tndui.com for more information about the offense of driving under the influence in Tennessee.
