Deepfakes, pet abandonment and laser pointers: New state laws take effect July 1
More than 170 new laws will take effect Tuesday, July 1. (George Walker IV/AP file)
Beginning Tuesday, July 1, a range of new laws approved by the Tennessee Legislature and signed by Gov. Bill Lee will go into effect, including measures affecting child abuse, juvenile court records, cellphones in schools and the abandonment of animals.
More than 170 new laws will take effect due to the efforts of the first half of the 114th General Assembly, which concluded April 22; the second half will begin Jan. 13, 2026.
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Tennessee State Legislature Juvenile Court pets child abuse Cellphones Subscriber OnlyAre you enjoying your subscription?
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Jody Callahan
Jody Callahan graduated with degrees in journalism and economics from what is now known as the University of Memphis. He has covered news in Memphis for more than 25 years.
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