Many new laws to take effect in Tennessee on January 1

JACKSON, Tenn. — One thing that’s certain is change.

With 2024 around the corner, there comes changes to our existing laws. Here’s a look at some of the new laws that will take effect in Tennessee January 1, 2024.

One bill states minors could receive up to seven points on their driving record if caught texting and driving after the first time, enough to potentially have a license suspended for 6-12 months (SB0589).

Another bill authorizes the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security to create a voucher program to offset the cost of a first-time firearm safety course (SB0360). This also includes requirements to provide information on handgun safety training courses available to Tennesseans at a reduced cost on their website.

“It just encourages folks to try to take these safety courses, and own their skills, and make sure they understand the laws associated with carrying a firearm,” said Representative Chris Todd.

And the Tennessee Department of Correction will be required to provide felons who are being released with relevant documentation to regain employment, including a photo ID and other documentation, like birth certificates and social security cards under certain circumstances (SB0814).

There’s also new laws that keep children safe from family violence (SB0722). The court can consider past evidence from arrest records or protection orders when determining custody.

“Well keeping our citizens safe is obviously of the utmost importance to me,” Todd said. “In each of these laws, there’s a safety component to them. Anytime we increase penalties we do so to act as a deterrent.”

Other laws include GPS technology added to breathalyzers that are installed on cars owned by people convicted of a DUI (SB0258), and support and resources for firefighters diagnosed with PTSD (SB0856).

Click here to learn more on legislation from the Tennessee General Assembly.

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