HB 773 requires that websites publishing legal notices for public viewing (such as court filings or government announcements) cannot charge fees or require subscriptions for access. This applies directly to online platforms, including newspapers, that post such notices under Tennessee law. The bill amends Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 1, Chapter 3, to add a specific requirement that these websites must be freely accessible to all residents. It takes effect on July 1, 2025, ensuring public access to legal notices without financial barriers.
SB 741 criminalizes possessing, distributing, or producing digital tools designed to create material featuring minors in sexual activity (real or simulated, if patently offensive). It classifies violations as Class E (possession), Class C (distribution), or Class B (production) felonies. Courts must consider specific factors like the defendant’s statements, existing material, advertising, and legitimate uses when determining intent. The law, effective July 1, 2025, directly affects individuals who handle such technology, not minors or general users.
SB 556 prohibits Tennessee's Public Utility Commission from regulating the entry, rates, terms, or conditions of broadband internet access services or interconnected VoIP services, or treating providers of these services as carriers. It directly affects broadband and VoIP providers by removing state regulatory oversight and the Public Utility Commission by restricting its authority over these services. The bill preserves general consumer protection and fair competition laws while exempting existing tariffed services from 2006. It does not affect federal law, 911 fees, or universal service assessments.
HB 932 requires Tennessee public schools to create policies banning student use of phones, tablets, and other wireless devices during class time, except for specific educational purposes, health emergencies, or when required by a student's special education plan (IEP) or 504 plan. The policy must allow teachers to permit device use for learning, let students access devices in emergencies, and ensure parents can be contacted during crises. Schools must publish these policies online and may temporarily withhold devices from students who violate the rules. The law takes effect July 1, 2025, applying to all public schools and charter schools in the state.
SB 897 requires Tennessee public schools and charter schools to create policies banning student use of wireless devices (like phones, tablets, or laptops) during instructional time, except for educational purposes approved by teachers, emergencies, health management, or as specified in a student's IEP or 504 plan. Schools must publish these policies online and establish procedures to contact parents during emergencies, ensuring device restrictions don't block emergency notifications. The law applies to all local school boards and public charter schools starting with the 2025-2026 school year. It directly affects students, teachers, and school administrators by changing device use rules during class.
