Bill > HB1008

This bill strengthens Tennessee's regulations around vapor products by increasing penalties for selling these products to individuals under 21 and establishing a comprehensive licensing system for vapor product retailers. Specifically, the bill increases the penalty for selling vapor products to someone under 21 from a Class C to a Class A misdemeanor, which carries more serious potential consequences. The bill also introduces a new licensing requirement for vapor product retailers, mandating that businesses obtain a $250 annual license from the Department of Commerce and Insurance to sell these products. To qualify for a license, businesses must be age-restricted, requiring customers to be 21 or older and verifying age through photo identification. The bill defines vapor products broadly, including electronic cigarettes and similar devices that deliver vaporized nicotine. Retailers who violate the new regulations face escalating civil penalties, starting at $5,000 for a first offense and potentially leading to license suspension or revocation for repeated violations. The licensing and enforcement provisions will take effect on July 1, 2025, giving businesses time to prepare for the new requirements. The bill aims to reduce youth access to vapor products and create a more regulated marketplace for these items.

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https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB1008&ga=114