SUMMARY: The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency reminds boaters that basic safety equipment is required on Tennessee waters. Each person must have a properly fitting, wearable U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket. Boats must carry a fire extinguisher, visible lights, and an ignition kill switch safety lanyard, which must be attached to the operator. Although not always required, throwable flotation devices, horns or whistles, and visual distress signals are strongly recommended. Boating drivers must pass a safety class, especially those born before 1989. Reckless operation near other boats is a class A misdemeanor, punishable like boating under the influence.

Read the full article

The post TWRA stresses boater safety, regulations as summer season kicks off appeared first on www.wkrn.com

SUMMARY: In May, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. made two major COVID vaccine policy changes: stopping CDC recommendations for vaccinating healthy children and pregnant women, and replacing all 17 members of the federal vaccine advisory committee. These moves, announced without expert panel guidance, drew strong criticism from leading physicians and public health groups. Experts like Dr. William Schaffner of Vanderbilt University warn these changes create uncertainty for travelers and others, affecting vaccine access and insurance coverage. The removed advisory panel published an editorial condemning the decision, saying it undermines decades of institutional knowledge vital to the vaccination program’s success.

The impact of COVID vaccine changes

Source

SUMMARY: Tennessee has implemented multiple new laws enhancing public safety and consumer protections. Online boating license tests now allow remote exams, improving rural access. The Good Samaritan Law expands to cover alcohol overdoses, encouraging emergency help without legal fear. DUI penalties tightened, lowering the BAC threshold for aggravated vehicular offenses. Laws protect children from hemp-derived products and fentanyl exposure, imposing stricter penalties. Human smuggling and threats of mass violence face tougher charges, while new measures combat hate crimes and AI deepfakes. Consumer protections address unfair billing and lab-grown meat labeling. Traffic laws increase penalties for blocking traffic, bullying, and rideshare impersonation, improving safety and accessibility.

Read the full article

The post New laws to take effect in Tennessee July 1 – The Tennessee Tribune appeared first on tntribune.com