Bill > SB0148

This bill introduces comprehensive regulations regarding cell-cultured food products in Tennessee, defining them as food products produced in a controlled environment by growing cells harvested from animals without traditional slaughter, such as from livestock, poultry, shellfish, or game animals. The legislation modifies existing state codes to exclude cell-cultured food products from legal definitions of meat and poultry, and specifically prohibits local education agencies (LEAs), public charter schools, and public higher education institutions from offering or distributing these products through their food services or nutrition programs. The bill provides legal recourse for parents and students who are affected by violations, allowing them to bring civil actions against educational institutions that do not comply, with potential remedies including compensatory damages and attorney fees. Notably, the provisions are set to terminate on July 1, 2035, suggesting a temporary experimental approach to regulating these emerging food technologies. The bill takes effect on July 1, 2025, and represents a proactive stance by Tennessee to regulate the emerging cell-cultured food product industry, particularly in educational settings.