English‑only driver's license test fails in subcommittee after hours of testimony

House Bill 556, sponsored by Representative Capley, failed in the House Transportation Subcommittee on a 3–5 vote with one member present not voting after stakeholders argued the measure would harm immigrant workers and the state economy.

The bill, as amended to meet Americans with Disabilities Act concerns, would have required Tennessee to administer the written portion of the state driving test in English only. Sponsor Representative Capley described the measure as "very simple" and said the amendment ensured compliance with the ADA. "This bill is very simple. It says that the state of Tennessee will give out driver's license tests and they will be administered in English and English only," he said.

Multiple witnesses from immigrant and business advocacy groups testified in strong opposition. Diana Sanchez Vega, identifying herself as a naturalized citizen and a representative of the Our State Our Languages Coalition, asked lawmakers to consider economic and workforce effects and said restricting tests to English would harm workers with limited English who nevertheless have safe driving records. "If our esteemed legislators can navigate foreign roads safely, why should hardworking residents be penalized by a test that is only offered in English?" she asked.

William Mendoza, testifying as an individual, said the proposal would place an "unfair obstacle" before immigrants who help sustain agriculture, construction, hospitality and manufacturing and that translating tests improves road safety by ensuring comprehension. Luis Pedraza, a Shelbyville resident, warned of negative economic consequences if executives and workers cannot obtain licenses while temporarily in the state and said fewer licenses could reduce property purchases and tax revenue.

Several committee members raised economic concerns. Chairman Howell and others said the Tennessee Chamber of Commerce and the Department of Economic and Community Development oppose the bill; Chairman Howell said those groups believe it could have a "very negative economic impact". Representative Capley responded that the bill was not intended to target immigrants and that his focus was safety and that road signs and commands are in English.

Action and vote: After public testimony and committee discussion, the subcommittee voted. Clerk announced the result: 3 ayes, 5 nos, and 1 present not voting. The bill failed to move forward from the subcommittee.

Clarifying details from testimony: witnesses cited examples of workers for whom multilingual tests would shorten commutes and increase employment opportunities; business representatives said translating tests supports recruiting and retaining foreign executives and plant staff.