CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (CLARKSVILLENOW) – Several new laws are set to take effect in Tennessee starting January 1, 2018.
Some of these laws include (As reported by WKRN News 2):
Cell phones in school zones
This bill makes talking on a handheld cell phone in a school zone while the warning lights are flashing punishable by a fine of up to $50.
Handgun permits
This bill creates an exemption to the firing range portion of the training required to get a handgun carry permit if the applicant can prove they successfully passed small arms training or combat pistol training in any branch of the United States armed forces.
Barbers
This bill allows a barber to perform services in a home for anyone if they have a residential barber certificate.
School transportation
This bill establishes a school transportation supervisor program and requires new school bus drivers to complete a training program before they can drive a school bus. They must also be at least 25 years old.
Disabled persons
This bill gives a competent adult with a functional disability, or a caregiver of a minor child or incompetent adult, to direct and supervise a paid personal aide to perform health maintenance tasks.
Marijuana jurisdiction
This bill removes the Alcoholic Beverage Commission’s jurisdiction over enforcement of criminal offense involving marijuana.
Headlights
This bill amends a current bill to prohibit any vehicle with steady-burning lights to have any color light, other than white or amber, whether they are steady or flashing.
Prescription drugs
This bill authorizes the Board of Pharmacy to create a voluntary prescription drug donation repository program to allow people to donate prescription drugs and supplies to be used by eligible individuals.
Alarm systems
This bill allows a homeowner to cancel a contract for alarm services that is longer than two years by giving 30 days notice to the alarm system contractor if the homeowner has to sell the property for medical reasons.
Campus free-speech
This bill recognizes students’ right to free speech and directs institutions of higher education to give students the freedom to speak, write, listen, challenge, learn and discuss any issue, as long as they don’t violate the First Amendment.