NASHVILLE, Tenn. — More than 200 new laws took effect in Tennessee on Wednesday, introducing a range of changes that impact various aspects of life, from immigration enforcement to child care access and educational policies in public schools.
Changes to Immigration Enforcement
The new immigration regulations mandate collaboration between certain local law enforcement agencies and federal immigration authorities. To secure a Tennessee driver’s license, applicants will eventually need to pass a written test in English. Although drivers can still take their written exams in other languages for the next three years, they will receive a restricted license until they successfully complete the English examination.
Additionally, Tennessee has enacted legislation that criminalizes staying in the state following a final federal removal order. Many state licenses, public benefits, and commercial driving privileges will now be limited exclusively to U.S. citizens and those legally residing in the country. Operating a commercial vehicle without legal status is now classified as a Class A misdemeanor, with law enforcement required to alert federal immigration authorities in such cases.
Streamlining Child Care Center Licensing
Another newly enacted law seeks to simplify the process for opening child care centers, addressing a growing demand for such facilities. This is complemented by a separate regulation that mandates all teachers and aides working in child care programs for children under four years old to be at least 18 years of age.
New Criminal Offenses Established
Under the revised laws regarding criminal offenses, assaulting first responders—including police officers, firefighters, and medical personnel—has escalated to a Class E felony. This offense carries a potential fine of up to $10,000 and a minimum sentence of 60 days in jail, a significant increase from the previous designation as a Class A misdemeanor. Furthermore, the state now categorizes forcing an individual to commit suicide as a crime under the Grace Ann Sparks Forced Suicide Prevention Act of 2026.
New legislation has also lowered the standards concerning the use of deadly force to protect property. It now prohibits landlords from restricting tenants’ rights to possess or carry firearms within their rental properties or designated parking areas, affecting leases that are initiated, amended, or renewed after July 1, 2026. Additionally, sex offenders and violent sex offenders must inform campground owners or operators prior to their planned stay, with failure to do so classified as a Class E felony.
Educational Enhancements
In the education sector, schools are now authorized to administer a wider array of epinephrine medications to manage life-threatening allergic reactions. School districts also have the option to display the Ten Commandments and other historical documents, allowing for a broader interpretation of educational materials.
Regulations on Artificial Intelligence in Advertising
New regulations surrounding political advertising stipulate that any content incorporating deepfakes or artificial intelligence must include a disclaimer. Violations will be considered a Class C misdemeanor, and candidates are entitled to seek damages for such infractions. Moreover, Tennessee now forbids the development or deployment of artificial intelligence systems that misrepresent themselves as licensed mental health professionals.
Kratom Prohibition Under New Law
The sale and consumption of kratom, a substance often used as an opioid substitute, is now prohibited in Tennessee following the enactment of the Matthew Davenport Act. Though commonly found in gas stations and smoke shops across the state, health experts caution that the use of kratom poses significant addiction risks.
State Control Over Airports
In a significant legislative shift, the state has taken control of Metro and regional airports, dissolving the previous Metro-appointed board and establishing a new governing body. This marks the second effort by the state Legislature in three years to assume authority over airport operations. Additionally, Tennessee has designated August 8 as Clog Dancing Day, further adding to the state’s cultural initiatives.
