New Laws in Tennessee Going Into Effect for the New Year

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF)- With the New Year upon us there are new laws you need to be aware of.
One such bill is HB 2416. Passed in May, the bill prohibits any quote “abortion-inducing pill” from being shipped by a mail service.

Any distribution of an abortion pill according to the law must be in-person at a licensed doctor. Any provider found violating the law would be charged with a Class E Felony and fined up to $50,000. Do note that this bill was passed before Roe v. Wade was struck down in June, and it is uncertain how this issue will proceed forward.

Another bill is HB 2398. This bill expands foster care services for young adults transitioning out of state care. The bill outlines anyone in foster care from 18 to 21 years old will now be able to voluntarily remain in the system to receive housing as long as they meet certain criteria. This criteria includes college and trade school students, those employed or in a work ready program, or those with a mental disability.

One new bill nicknamed “Dallas’s Law”, or SB 2514, deals with training requirements for unarmed security guards at venues.

Guards must now prove they have passed a minimum four hour training course on topics such as the legal powers and limitations, along with emergency procedures for security guards. They must also complete proper deescalation training along with CPR and first aid training. This law was written after the death of a man named Dallas Barrett at a Nashville bar following a confrontation with security guards in 2021.

Additionally, farmers and other nursery operators can purchase building material, fencing material, warranties, and other agricultural materials tax free, providing hefty savings on many essential goods for these businesses.

There are many other new laws going into effect as well.

One important thing to remember in the New Year is that every Tennessee resident should have the update blue license plate. The green one is now officially obsolete.