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New Tennessee laws taking effect today; what you need to know

Tennessee State Capitol
Posted at 7:44 AM, Jan 01, 2021
and last updated 2021-01-01 09:15:34-05

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Now that we're putting 2020 in the rear-view mirror, Tennesseans need to know some new laws that officially start on Jan. 1, 2021.

Starting today, you have be 21-years-old to buy cigarettes or any other tobacco products -- that's up from the age 18.

Changes have also been made to the Amber Alert system as part of the Holly Bobo Act. This would increase the age limit to 21, raising it from anyone under the age of 18.

Another change is the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act, which allows expecting women to make more requests for accommodations in the workplace.

There is also new legislation that will allow 911 operators across the state to provide CPR instructions to callers in an emergency. Prior to today, not all counties allowed 911 operators to give callers CPR instructions.

Tennessee lawmakers will return to Nashville to debate more key issues when the General Assembly convenes January 12. A special session on education begins a week later.