Tennessee Senate Bill SB0638

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/25

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 1, Chapter 3; Title 39, Title 43, Chapter 27 and Title 68, Chapter 1, Part 1, relative to vapor products.

Impact

If enacted, SB0638 could lead to changes in state laws that govern the sale and distribution of vapor products. This would impact retailers and distributors, particularly concerning compliance with regulations aimed at preventing sales to minors. Additionally, the findings of the departmental study could influence future legislation focusing on public health initiatives and age restrictions related to vapor product access.

Summary

Senate Bill 638 (SB0638) is an act that proposes amendments to several sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically targeting regulations surrounding vapor products. The bill urges the department of agriculture to conduct a study analyzing the sale and distribution of vapor products to individuals under the age of twenty-one, as well as the implications of their use among this demographic. The objective is to inform legislative recommendations aimed at reducing access and usage of vapor products by youth in the state.

Contention

The introduction of SB0638 highlights ongoing concerns regarding the health effects of vapor products among young people. While proponents may advocate for regulatory measures to control underage access, there could be opposition from businesses engaged in the sale of such products, which may view the regulations as detrimental to their operations. Moreover, there are broader implications for public health policy and community health standards that will need careful consideration as stakeholders assess the potential outcomes of the legislation.