Tennessee bill on color ads goes to governor

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — A bill that would allow businesses to advertise in color on school buses has been passed by the Tennessee General Assembly.

Currently, school buses in the state can only display black-and-white advertisements. The ads must be placed on the rear quarter panels and must not exceed 16 inches in height and 60 inches in length. They also must not advertise alcohol or tobacco products.

The Associated Press reported that the state Senate had passed the new legislation but had to agree to a House change that would prohibit the advertisement of food items that are not allowed to be sold in schools. The Senate agreed to the change earlier this week.

The bill now moves to Gov. Phil Bredesen. If approved, it would take effect July 1.