6/27/07-A bill has died that sought to prohibit open containers of alcohol in vehicles traveling public roadways in the state.
Tennessee law already prohibits drivers from having an open alcoholic beverage, but passengers 21 years of age or older are free to drink while in vehicles.
Sponsored by Sen. Tim Burchett, R-Knoxville, SB2020 would have eliminated the open container provision in state law. Violators would have faced up to $50 fines and/or 30 days in jail.
Exceptions would have been made for passengers in cabs, limousines and recreational vehicles.
The companion bill – HB1396 – also died.

3/28/07-A bill in Senate Judiciary Committee would prohibit open containers of alcohol in vehicles traveling public roadways in the state.
Tennessee law already prohibits drivers from having an open alcoholic beverage, but passengers 21 years of age or older are free to drink while in vehicles.
Sponsored by Sen. Tim Burchett, R-Knoxville, SB2020 would eliminate the open container provision in state law. Violators would face up to $50 fines and/or 30 days in jail.
Exceptions would be made for passengers in cabs, limousines and recreational vehicles.
For bill status, call (615) 741-0927.

2/23/07-Sen. Tim Burchett, R-Knoxville, has introduced a bill that would prohibit open containers of alcohol in vehicles traveling public roadways in the state.
Tennessee law already prohibits drivers from having an open alcoholic beverage, but passengers 21 years of age or older are free to drink while in vehicles.
SB2020 would eliminate the open container provision in state law. Violators would face up to $50 fines and/or 30 days in jail.
Exceptions would be made for passengers in cabs, limousines and recreational vehicles.
The bill is awaiting assignment to committee. For bill status, call (615) 741-0927.
The companion bill - HB1396 - is in the House State and Local Government Committee.