Tennessee Moves to Stiffen Penalties for Illegal Street Racing
Street racing is ingrained in the culture of hot rodding, for better or worse. Movies have glorified it, while television series have turned it into an organized spectacle, leading to a seemingly endless array of late-night illicit actions happening across towns and cities nationwide. The largest motorsport organization worldwide was formed in the ’50s to deter this type of behavior. It is illegal, it is dangerous, and yet for many, the lure of excitement is far too enticing to ignore. Tennessee is now looking to combat this growing issue on their streets with House Bill 2814, aimed at significantly toughening the penalties for illegal street racing.
Proposed Changes in Legislation
State Representative John Gillespie (R-Memphis) sponsored the bill in the state’s House. If the bill is passed, it will elevate street racing from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class E felony, imposing fines of up to $3,000 and possibly a prison sentence of up to six years. Gillespie cites over 300 arrests for reckless driving and street racing during a six-month span in 2022, raising questions about the correlation between the closure of Memphis International Raceway in 2022 and the subsequent rise in illegal activities.
Historical Context of Street Racing Legislation
This is not the first legislative effort to impose stricter penalties; historically, operations like Operation Hermes were initiated by the New York Police Department and the Queens District Attorney’s office in 1994. These operations were motivated by newly enacted laws intended to enhance the quality of life in urban areas, thereby marking stiffer penalties for street racing. This initiative drew national attention, particularly when two confiscated Mustangs were transformed into NYPD cruisers, symbolizing a stern warning to the community to slow down and refrain from illegal racing.
Emergence of Street Takeovers
Street racing is not the only phenomenon tarnishing the reputation of automotive enthusiasm. A fast-growing trend known as street takeovers or sideshows is sweeping across various cities from New York to Los Angeles. These gatherings involve groups of individuals obstructing intersections to perform burnouts, doughnuts, and other motorized antics. While distinct from street racing, these activities pose equally significant dangers.
Advocate for Safe and Controlled Racing Events
It is vital to support local drag strips and sanctioned drag racing events. Tracks offer a safer and legitimate alternative to illegal street racing. Moreover, with the increasing number of burnout competitions and amateur drifting events, sideshows and takeovers have legal outlets that ensure both excitement and safety.
