Committee updates Tennessee law for personal delivery devices, authorizes speeds up to 20 mph outside sidewalks

NASHVILLE — The Tennessee House Transportation Committee on Feb. 10 passed House Bill 1684, updating the state’s law on personal delivery devices to reflect recent technological advances and adding an amendment that clarifies operating limits.

Sponsor testimony described the devices as low‑speed, autonomous tools for short‑distance deliveries that can improve merchants’ ability to meet demand. The sponsor said the amendment removes any language that might be read as giving a device a legal “right” and clarified that devices remain subject to local regulation and enforcement.

The amendment expands where a device may lawfully operate and authorizes operating speeds up to 20 miles per hour when not on sidewalks. When members pressed on distance and use of bike paths or shoulders, the sponsor repeatedly characterized operations as for short, neighborhood routes served from a local holding area. The sponsor also said registration or titling under electric vehicle rules was not intended.

Members raised safety and liability concerns, including whether general liability coverage would be sufficient and how devices would interact with pedestrians, pets and traffic. The sponsor pointed to real‑world testing in other jurisdictions and cited Arizona as an operating example.

The committee moved the previous question and took a roll‑call vote: 18 ayes and 2 nos. The chair announced the bill passed and will proceed to the next stage of committee review.