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 138 establishes a $5 million annual special fund to provide grants to Tennessee local school districts and public charter schools. The fund supports acquiring or expanding digital career and technical education programs that include multimedia lessons, interactive activities, and assessments. Schools must apply through the state education department, which will prioritize applications based on demonstrated need, student impact, and alignment with workforce goals. Unspent funds carry forward annually rather than reverting to the general budget, and the bill requires separate annual appropriations for funding.

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.