Here are 10 notable new laws taking effect July 1 in Tennessee

Starting July 1, more than 100 new laws take effect in Tennessee. Altogether, lawmakers passed more than 500 new laws, but some will be enacted throughout the year.

Here’s a list of 10 new laws that will mean big changes to the state’s legal landscape.

1. Firearms: Juvenile offenders of minors cannot buy or own firearms until age 25.
2. Mental Incompetence: Prevents those deemed mentally incompetent from purchasing firearms after being found so by a court. Known as Jillian’s Law, named after Jillian Ludwig.
3. Death Penalty: Individuals convicted of child rape face the death penalty.
4. Immigration Verification: Law enforcement must contact federal immigration officials to verify the driver’s immigration status during traffic stops under certain circumstances.
5. DUI Penalties: Minimum jail time for drivers with a blood alcohol level of 0.15% increased from 2 to 7 days.
6. ELVIS Act: Protects artists from exploitation by artificial intelligence, enforceable as a Class A misdemeanor.
7. School Safety: Threats of mass violence at schools upgraded to a Class E felony.
8. Abortion Trafficking: Adults transporting minors for abortions face Class A misdemeanor charges.
9. Street Drag Racing: Elevated to a Class E felony, punishable with up to six years in prison.
10. Age Appropriate Materials: School libraries must adjust collections to suit students’ age and educational needs.

These laws reflect significant shifts in Tennessee law, impacting firearms, school and public safety, immigration and more.