Five New Tennessee Laws for 2024

A new year means new laws. Below are five new Tennessee laws to be aware of. These laws are effective January 1^st, 2024.

James Dustin Samples Act, Abrial’s Law, & Senate Bill 0814 | Five New Tennessee Laws

1. Senate Bill 0856 (aka the “James ‘Dusitn’ Samples Act”):

This new act of legislation will enact a grant program. This program will cover the cost of employers that provide workers’ compensation for firefighters. Allowing them to seek help with PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder). This act is named after James ‘Dustin’ Samples, a firefighter from Cleveland, Tennessee. Sadly, James took his own life after battling PTSD.

(Source: wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/BillInfo/Default.aspx?BillNumber=SB0856)

• Senate Bill 0722 (aka the “Keeping Children Safe from Family Violence Act” or “Abrial’s Law”):

This new act will require judges involved in child custody proceedings to complete training on domestic violence and child abuse. The goal of this act is to ensure children involved in custody cases have a safe place to go in situations of domestic violence.

(Source – wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/BillInfo/Default.aspx?BillNumber=SB0722)

• Senate Bill 0814:

“This act requires the Department of Correction (DOC) to provide discharged inmates with documentation assisting them with obtaining post-release employment.”¹ This only applies to inmates who intend to reside in Tennessee. Furthermore, the DOC must work with the Department of Safety to provide discharged inmates with proper photo identification or driver’s license.

¹(Source – wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/BillInfo/Default.aspx?BillNumber=SB0814)

Senate Bill 0360 & Eddie Conrad Act | Five New Tennessee Laws

• Senate Bill 0360:

This bill authorizes the Department of Safety to use the $100 enhanced handgun carry permit fee to reimburse approved handgun safety schools. This reimbursement is up to $30 per person completing a safety course from January 1, 2024, to January 1, 2025. The reimbursement is to offset course costs. The department must provide annual information on approved courses and report course numbers by February 1, 2025. The bill also outlines signage for dealers to promote the reimbursement program.

(Source – wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/BillInfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SB0360&GA=113)

• House Bill 0485 (aka the “Eddie Conrad Act”):

This bill amends existing motor vehicle laws by introducing stricter penalties for using electronic devices while driving. It establishes a point system for violations: seven points for a second offense by someone under 18. Or four points for a first or second offense by someone 18 or older. And five points for a third or subsequent offense by someone 18 or older. These points contribute to the individual’s driving record. The current fines and provisions for accidents or violations in specific zones remain in effect. Furthermore, if an 18-year-old or younger is caught texting and driving twice a year, their license will be suspended. This suspension will be for six months.

(Source – https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/BillInfo/Default.aspx?BillNumber=HB0485&ga=113)

To learn more about your rights in Tennessee pertaining to Family Law, Elder Law, and Estate Planning, contact Kane & Crowell, PLLC or call us at 615-784-4800.