Tennessee Will Impose License Suspensions on Teen Bullies

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      Teenagers in Tennessee might want to reconsider their actions when it comes to bullying their peers, whether face-to-face or online. Changes to a law that took effect this month in Tennessee now permit the suspension of driving privileges for teen bullies for a year if they are found guilty of bullying or cyber-bullying. As reported by The New York Times, while some critics doubt that these potential repercussions will effectively deter such behavior in adolescents, advocates of the new law see it as a beneficial step for both mental health and public safety.

      Last year, Tennessee aligned with the majority of states by legally classifying both bullying and cyber-bullying as Class A misdemeanors. When this measure was enacted, some voiced concerns about the penalties being unclear, inconsistent, and often insufficient. A year later, state lawmakers are still working to strengthen these laws, resulting in the recent addition of driving suspensions.

      Starting July 1, any minor found guilty of bullying or cyber-bullying in juvenile court will have their license revoked for a year, according to ABC News. An appeals process has been included, permitting first-time offenders to request a restricted license that allows them to drive only to essential activities (such as work or legal obligations). However, those with repeated offenses are not eligible to apply.

      Yet, if the critics are right (which is quite possible), the young individuals these laws aim to impact may either dismiss the potential penalties or simply disregard them. With teenagers showing an increasing reluctance to obtain their licenses as they become eligible, the opportunity for these laws to make an impact might be limited. Losing a license for a year at ages 16 or 17 may not carry the same weight as it once did in terms of social repercussions.

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