Maryville, TN – As Tennessee ushers in the new year, several impactful state laws are set to take effect on January 1, 2025. These new measures address a range of issues, from online safety for minors to increased training for alcohol servers, with the goal of enhancing public safety, transparency, and access to services across the state.
One of the most notable pieces of legislation is the “Protecting Children from Social Media Act,” which will require social media companies to verify the age of their users and obtain parental consent for minors. The law aims to strengthen protections for young users who may be vulnerable to online risks. By mandating age verification, the state seeks to create a safer online environment for children, addressing growing concerns over social media’s impact on youth.
Another significant new law, the “Protect Tennessee Minors Act,” will require websites hosting sexual content to implement measures that ensure viewers are 18 years or older. This measure is designed to prevent minors from accessing explicit material and further protect Tennessee’s youth from inappropriate online exposure.
In the realm of alcohol service, Tennessee will see a change that seeks to combat sexual assault in alcohol-serving environments. Starting in 2025, all alcohol servers in the state will be required to complete specialized training on the role of drugs and alcohol in sexual assault. The training, which must be renewed every two years, aims to equip bartenders and servers with the knowledge to recognize and intervene in potentially dangerous situations, enhancing safety for patrons.
Tennessee’s healthcare landscape will also experience changes as a new law expands access to birth control for TennCare customers. The move will increase availability and options for those enrolled in the state’s Medicaid program, improving access to reproductive health services across the state.
Finally, landlords and tenants will benefit from a new law designed to foster greater transparency in rental agreements. The law mandates clearer communication between property owners and renters, ensuring that tenants are better informed about their rights and responsibilities under their lease agreements.
As these laws come into effect on January 1, 2025, they reflect Tennessee’s ongoing efforts to address pressing social issues and promote public safety, health, and fairness across the state. With these changes, Tennessee is poised to enter the new year with a stronger legal framework aimed at benefiting its residents.
