CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (CLARKSVILLENOW) – Starting midnight of July 1 a slate of new laws will take effect across the state. The laws range from marriage licence requirements to changes in higher education.

Hands Free while Driving

Prohibits drivers using handheld devices in the state. Drives cannot use social media while behind the wheel or even put in directions to an address driving. Drivers can use hands free devices, such as those connected by Bluetooth to make calls or to navigate.  The new law is aimed at cutting down distracted driving.

DUI While on Electric Scooter

This new law establishes an electric foot scooter, such as Bird and Lime scooters all across Nashville, as a motor driven vehicle. This law means people who operate an electric scooter under the influence can be charged with DUI.

Online Ministers can no longer officiate weddings*

Starting July 1, Tennessee will no longer allow anyone who has received an online ordination to solemnize weddings. Under the new law spiritual leaders must be ordained with the customs of a church, temple or other religious group or organization. The law does add members of the Tennessee General Assembly to the list of government official who can officiate weddings.

Students must pass a civics test to graduate

High school students will have a new requirement to receive their diploma: pass a U.S. civics test. Under the new law students will must score at least a 75% in order to graduate. The civics test must include all 100 from the United States Civics Test.

Changes in Higher Education 

Higher education institutions throughout the state will now have to develop and implement a suicide prevention plan for students, faculty and staff.  The institutions must provide the plan to students, facility and staff at least once per semester.

Additionally, higher education institutions must designate a staff member to serve as a homeless student liaison to assist homeless students who are enrolled at the school. The staff member must also create a plan to provide the student access to housing resources, if the school offers housing resources.

 

*  These Public Chapters have multiple effective dates – only portions of that Public Chapter will take effect on July 1st 2019.