MEMPHIS, Tennessee — A bill that would make drag racing a felony on Tennessee streets and punishable by up to six years in prison is headed to the governor’s desk to be signed into law.
House Bill 2814, sponsored by Senator Brent Taylor (D-Memphis) and Representative John Gillespie (R-Memphis), was passed by the 113th General Assembly.
The bill enhances the penalty for illegal drag racing from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class E felony.
“Illegal street racing is a major issue in Memphis and across the state that has led to senseless injuries and death,” Gillespie said. “Tennesseans are tired of feeling unsafe on the road because of careless and dangerous drivers. This legislation seeks to encourage safe driving while serving as a deterrent for people looking to recklessly take over our streets.”
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According to Gillespie’s office, during a six-month period in 2022, Memphis police reported more than 300 arrests for drag racing and reckless driving. Gillispie said that as of March, more than 35 people had been arrested in Nashville for charges relating to street racing since the year prior.