New Tennessee Laws Impacting Sumner County in 2026

As of January 1, 2026, a series of new laws have taken effect in Tennessee, bringing significant changes across various sectors.

 

Residents and businesses in Sumner County should be aware of these developments to ensure compliance and take advantage of new opportunities.

 

Banking and Financial Institutions

 

House Bill 691 revises the franchise and excise tax credits available to financial institutions. The calculation now considers the month-end average unpaid principal balance of qualified loans, aiming to provide a more accurate reflection of lending activities.

 

Business Regulations

 

The "Debt Resolution Services Act" (HB 743) introduces new regulations for companies offering debt resolution services. This law establishes guidelines to protect consumers and ensure fair practices within the industry.

 

Additionally, HB 1376 places the regulation of hemp-derived cannabinoid products under the jurisdiction of the Alcoholic Beverage Commission and the Department of Revenue. It creates licensing requirements for suppliers, wholesalers, and retailers, and sets forth taxation and penalties for non-compliance.

 

Employment and Labor

 

Senate Bill 322 grants employees up to six workweeks of leave to care for family members with serious health conditions. This provision aims to support workers balancing professional responsibilities with family caregiving duties.

 

Public Safety and Law Enforcement

 

"Savanna's Law" (HB 1200) establishes a registry for persistent domestic violence offenders, maintained by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. Named in honor of Savanna Puckett, a Robertson County sheriff’s deputy who was tragically murdered in 2022, this law seeks to enhance public safety and support victims.

 

Furthermore, HB 749 introduces a Class B misdemeanor for operating a motor vehicle with an invalid driver license. It also designates out-of-state licenses issued exclusively to illegal aliens as invalid within Tennessee.

 

Healthcare and Professional Licensure

 

HB 979 establishes licensure requirements for anesthesiologist assistants, expanding the scope of practice within the state's healthcare system.

 

In the realm of tattoo artistry, the "Ink of Hope Act" mandates that, starting January 1, 2026, tattoo artists renewing or obtaining new licenses must complete a one-hour course on human trafficking awareness. This training aims to equip artists with the knowledge to identify and report potential trafficking situations.

 

Veterinary Medicine

 

HB 164/SB 128 permits licensed chiropractors in Tennessee to extend their practice to animals. Despite opposition from the American Veterinary Medical Association, the law requires chiropractors to complete six hours of annual continuing education in animal chiropractic and obtain certification from the American Veterinary Chiropractic Association.

 

Local Developments in Sumner County

 

Sumner County has been proactive in implementing measures to enhance community well-being. Notably, the county has joined the 287(g) ICE enforcement program, allowing local law enforcement to collaborate more closely with federal immigration authorities. This partnership aims to address illegal immigration more effectively within the county.

 

Additionally, the Sumner County Planning Commission is considering amendments to flood regulations. A proposal to raise the Base Flood Elevation from one foot to three feet is under review, aligning with standards in cities like Nashville and Franklin. This change seeks to improve flood resilience and protect properties in flood-prone areas.

 

As these new laws take effect, staying informed and engaged will help Sumner County residents and businesses navigate the evolving legal landscape and participate actively in community initiatives.