Tennesseans are welcoming 16 brand new laws with the New Year. And while some of the laws will go largely unnoticed by the general population, others may have a direct impact on daily life. Below, a Crossville, TN, attorney from Patton & Hyder PLLC highlights several new state laws currently in effect.

Attorney Explains 5 New Tennessee State Laws

Handgun Permits—House Bill 0689

As of January 1^st, 2018, individuals able to prove they have passed combat pistol or small arms training during their time in the United State Armed forces will be exempt from the firing range test typically required to receive a handgun permit. The firing range test will still be required for all other applicants. 

Campus Free Speech—Senate Bill 0723

Under the Campus Free Speech Protection Act, public institutions of higher education are required to protect student’s right to free speech, so long as it is not in violation of the First Amendment. The bill also prohibits schools from banning quest speakers that have been invited by the faculty or member of the student body, regardless of the speaker’s viewpoints or stance on a particular topic.

Residential Barbers—Senate Bill 0032

Before this January, Tennessee barbers were prohibited from cutting hair at a client’s residence unless the client was ill. The new law allows barbers to provide residential services so long as they possess a residential barber certificate.

Cell Phone Usage in School Zones—Senate Bill 0954

If you are caught talking on a hand-held cellular device while driving in a marked school zone while warning lights are flashing, you may be fined up to $50. Texting while driving is always illegal throughout Tennessee.

Headlights—Senate Bill 0194

This bill restricts the color of front-facing vehicle lights to amber or white. Exceptions include mail carriers, school, buses, emergency vehicles, and certain law enforcement vehicles.  

With all the changes in Tennessee law, the attorneys at Patton & Hyder PLLC are available to answer any questions you may have. Focusing on a broad range of areas, including criminal defense, personal injury, estate planning, and real estate law, their seasoned legal team offers you the personalized, professional, focused representation you deserve. Contact the law office online or call (931) 787-1333 to speak with an attorney directly.