5/27/04-The House version of SB2606 to permit police to pull over drivers who are not buckled up has been forwarded to Gov. Phil Bredesen.
If signed into law, HB3104 would take effect July 1.

5/18/04-A bill before the Senate Finance, Ways and Means Committee would permit police to pull over drivers who are not buckled up
Currently, police can issue seat-belt citations to drivers older than age 17 only after stopping a vehicle for another traffic violation.
However, such violations are a primary offense for anyone 17 and younger who is not belted.
Under SB2606, sponsored by Sen. Michael Williams, R-Maynardville, drivers found in violation would be fined $10. No points would be assessed against the driver’s license.
If signed into law, the regulation would put the state in line for additional funding from the federal government.
An incentive program under consideration in Congress encourages states to increase seat-belt enforcement. The program would give states three years to enact a primary seat-belt law or reach a rate of usage of at least 90 percent.
Failure to do one or the other would result in a loss of up to 4 percent of federal highway funds to the state. In Tennessee, that would mean $15 million.
For bill status, call (615) 741-3511.
The House version of the bill – HB3104 – has been forwarded to the Senate.