Technology

HB 1316 prohibits the use of digital driver licenses or digital photo IDs for voter identification purposes in Tennessee. The bill amends state law to require physical driver licenses for voting verification, while regulating data handling for digital license systems: it bans geolocation tracking, limits data retention to three days, and restricts biometric data collection (like facial scans) to only verifying identity against a physical license photo. These provisions directly affect Tennessee residents using digital driver licenses for non-voting purposes. The law, effective April 24, 2025, also mandates explicit user consent for biometric data and prohibits selling or sharing such data beyond law enforcement needs.

HB 321 requires all Tennessee state executive branch agencies to accept electronic document submissions instead of fax transmissions. It defines "electronic transmission" as digital communication that can be printed (e.g., email, online portals) and removes all references to "fax," "facsimile," or "email" from over 30 sections of state law. This change affects state agencies handling paperwork and individuals or businesses submitting documents to them, streamlining processes by standardizing digital submissions. The law takes effect January 1, 2026.

HB 1011 requires online payment systems (like Venmo or PayPal, but excluding banks and credit unions) to provide users with written notice before freezing their funds. It mandates that notice be given to both the sender and recipient of a transaction, with exceptions for suspected financial exploitation or fraud. Violating this rule would be treated as an unfair or deceptive practice under Tennessee's Consumer Protection Act. The law takes effect July 1, 2025, applying to new or renewed agreements after that date.