New Tennessee laws take effect July 1. Here’s what Memphis readers should know.

A new round of Tennessee laws takes effect July 1, touching schools, public safety, businesses, colleges, health care, online creators, and local government. For Memphis and Shelby County readers, the biggest takeaway is that these are statewide changes, but many will show up locally — in classrooms, workplaces, restaurants, sheriff’s office policy, public benefits offices, and family decisions.

Among the most practical items for families: Tennessee public schools and public charter schools serving kindergarten through fifth grade will face new restrictions on student access to digital devices during the school day, with some exceptions. Public schools will also be required to provide child trafficking awareness and prevention instruction through health education, and schools will be allowed to keep and administer epinephrine for students believed to be experiencing life-threatening allergic reactions.

Several public-safety laws also take effect. One makes it a Class D felony to drug or spike someone else’s drink, food, or medication, with penalties that can include up to 12 years in prison and a $5,000 fine. Another creates penalties for people under 21 who illegally buy tobacco, hemp, vapor products, or smokeless tobacco.

For colleges and universities, a new law known as the Charlie Kirk Act requires Tennessee higher-education institutions to adopt certain free-speech protections and policies related to speakers, student organizations, faculty expression, religious beliefs, and viewpoint-based discrimination. That could be relevant for Memphis-area institutions and students heading to Tennessee campuses this fall.

There are also new rules affecting online content and technology. Tennessee is adding protections for children featured in monetized influencer content, including requirements that some earnings be set aside in trust. Another law prohibits AI developers from marketing an AI system as if it can function as a licensed mental health professional.

On the local-government side, Tennessee sheriffs will be required to enter into an available federal 287(g) immigration enforcement agreement by Jan. 1, 2027, with potential state funding consequences for noncompliance. Other new laws address immigration-related records, citizenship checks for public benefits, and citizenship or legal-residency proof for certain professional licenses, permits, or certifications.

For 901 Daily readers, the bottom line is simple: the July 1 laws are not just a Nashville headline. They may affect Memphis families, schools, restaurants, colleges, employers, local agencies, and community organizations in everyday ways over the next year. Readers with specific legal, business, school, or licensing questions should check the official bill language or consult the appropriate agency before making decisions.