Business and Commerce - As introduced, prohibits an individual without a valid transportation network license from accepting or transporting a prearranged ride originating in this state; requires the department of commerce and insurance to issue transportation network licenses to eligible individuals; limits the issuance of transportation network licenses to residents of this state and residents of certain out-of-state counties adjacent to this state. - Amends TCA Title 55 and Title 65, Chapter 15, Part 3.

HB 879 requires ride-hailing drivers in Tennessee to obtain a state-issued transportation network license from the Department of Commerce and Insurance. It prohibits unlicensed drivers from accepting prearranged rides starting in Tennessee, limits licenses to Tennessee residents and residents of Desoto County, Mississippi or Crittenden County, Arkansas, and requires ride-hailing companies to verify drivers have valid licenses. Violations by companies incur $1,000 penalties per incident, with repeated violations risking suspension of their operating license in Tennessee. The bill directly affects ride-hailing drivers, companies, and consumers by establishing a licensing framework for this industry within the state.