NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP/CLARKSVILLENOW) – Tennessee taxes are going up at the gas pump and dropping at the grocery store in just two changes in store as 133 new state laws take effect.
Saturday marks the July 1 benchmark for many laws to kick in.
That also means cities and counties must choose whether to use metal detectors at many of their buildings, parks and buses, or allow guns there.
And the state will begin banning abortion after 20 weeks if a doctor determines the fetus is viable through required tests.
The new laws were passed by the Republican-led General Assembly during the most recent legislative session from January to May. Republican Gov. Bill Haslam signed all 524 measures sent his way for approval this session.
Other laws going into effect July 1:
• Tennessee Hearing Protection Act removes firearm silencers from the list of weapons banned for having “no common lawful purpose.” Legislation was also passed that allows people who can legally have loaded or unloaded guns and ammunition to bring them on their boats.
• A new law will allocate more funds to teachers for the purchase of school supplies.
• Blocking public streets and highways in an area that restricts access to emergency vehicles will be considered a misdemeanor with a fine of $200. The law could potentially impact protesters.
• An amendment to Tennessee’s election laws requires a court to impose an additional $1,000 fine for a conviction for voter fraud. It also provides a $1,000 reward for information leading to a conviction of voter fraud.
• A new law will enhance penalties against those convicted of intentionally selecting their victim because of his or her status as a uniformed law enforcement officer or member of the armed forces.
• A homeowner’s association can’t enforce rules that prohibit displaying the flag of the United State of America or an official or replica flag of any branch of the United States armed forces on the property owner’s property.
• Tennessee school safety teams are required to conduct at least one armed intruder drill each year.
• An amendment increases the punishment for intentionally desecrating a place of worship or burial from a Class A misdemeanor to a Class E felony.
• A law increases the maximum annual interest rate that a bank may charge on credit card accounts from 21 percent to 30 percent.
Copyright 2017 The Associated Press.