MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A bill aimed at cracking down on drag racing has been signed into law by Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee.
House Bill 2814 enhances the penalty for illegal drag racing from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class E felony. That makes drag racing on Tennessee streets punishable by up to six years in prison and a fine of up to $3,000.
State Rep. John Gillespie (R-Memphis) was the bill’s house sponsor. He said during a six-month period in 2022, Memphis Police reported more than 300 arrests for reckless driving and drag racing.
“Illegal street racing is a major issue in Memphis and across the state that has led to senseless injuries and death,” Gillespie said. “This legislation seeks to encourage safe driving while serving as a deterrent for people looking to recklessly take over our streets.”
Gov. Lee signed the bill into law on May 21.
