House Bill 442 amends various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated to provide specific provisions for the use and operation of antique emergency vehicles, which include ambulances, fire department vehicles, and law enforcement vehicles that meet antique criteria. The bill allows these vehicles to participate in community and educational events, such as fairs and festivals, and permits the installation and operation of emergency lights and sirens that are representative of the era when the vehicle was manufactured. It establishes that individuals must obtain written authorization from local law enforcement or fire department chiefs to operate these lights or sirens and must carry this authorization while operating the vehicle.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that operating an antique emergency vehicle in compliance with the new provisions does not constitute criminal impersonation. The amendments include the addition of new subsections that outline the conditions under which antique emergency vehicles can operate their lights and sirens, ensuring that they are used appropriately during designated events. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 55-4-111(b), 55-4-111, 55-9-402, 55-9-201, 55-9-414, 39-16-301(b), 39-16-301