AG lays out rules for blue lights in funerals

Friday, July 5, 2013, Vol. 37, No. 27

NASHVILLE (AP) - A legal opinion issued by the state Attorney General Bob Cooper outlines exactly when it's legal for blue flashing lights to be used as part of a funeral procession in Tennessee.

The opinion requested by Republican Sen. Mae Beavers of Mt. Juliet says that only full-time law enforcement officers can use blue flashing lights while escorting funeral processions - as long as it's part of their official duty to do so. That standard applies even if they are off-duty and being paid for private security.

The attorney general said non-law enforcement may not use blue or red flashing lights of any kind, though escort vehicles can be equipped with amber lights.