House Bill 1449, also known as Senate Bill 1474, aims to amend various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated related to street drag racing. The bill specifically changes the terminology from "drag racing" to "street drag racing" throughout the relevant statutes. It introduces new definitions, including "drifting," which refers to the act of steering a vehicle to create a skid, and expands the definition of a "participant" in street drag racing to include not only drivers but also those who organize or promote such activities. Additionally, the bill establishes that reckless endangerment by street drag racing is classified as a Class E felony.

The bill also outlines the consequences for vehicles involved in street drag racing, allowing for impoundment and potential seizure upon conviction. It mandates that law enforcement officers must take arrested individuals before a magistrate rather than issuing a citation. The amendments aim to strengthen the legal framework surrounding street drag racing, enhance penalties, and clarify definitions to address the growing concerns related to this activity. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 55-10-501(1), 55-10-501, 55-10-501(1)(E), 55-10-502(a), 55-10-502, 55-10-503, 39-13-103(b), 39-13-103, 7-3-312(b)(4), 7-3-312, 39-13-213(a)(3), 39-13-213, 40-4-122(b)(4), 40-4-122, 55-10-206(b), 55-10-206, 55-10-306(b)(2), 55-10-306, 55-10-307(b)(4), 55-10-307, 68-55-306