KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) – A proposed Tennessee law that would restrict driver’s licenses for people who cannot pass an English-language exam is drawing support from lawmakers who say it will make roads safer — and concern from critics who warn it could jeopardize billions of dollars in foreign investment.
Senate Bill 1889 goes before the Senate Finance and Ways and Means Committee on Wednesday.
What the Bill Would Do
Under current Tennessee law, applicants can take the written driver’s license exam in a language other than English. In a way, SB-1889 would change that.
Non-English speakers who take the exam in another language would receive a restricted license — valid for one year only, and limited to driving to and from work, medical appointments or an educational institution. After that year, applicants would be required to retake and pass the exam in English, without the use of a translation dictionary, electronic device or interpreter.
The Safety Argument
State Rep. Jason Zachary (R), a co-sponsor of the bill, says the legislation is straightforward…