HB 1099 - SB 1156
FISCAL NOTE
Fiscal Review Committee
Tennessee General Assembly
March 14, 2025
Fiscal Analyst: Rebecca Chandler | Email: rebecca.chandler@capitol.tn.gov | Phone: 615-741-2564
HB 1099 - SB 1156
SUMMARY OF BILL: Defines “nanotechnology” as human-created structures, devices, and
systems designed by manipulating atoms and molecules at dimensions of 100 nanometers or less
with the capability to collect and transmit data. Requires labeling for any food that includes
nanotechnology before it can be sold, delivered for sale, held for sale, or offered for sale.
FISCAL IMPACT:
NOT SIGNIFICANT
Assumptions:
• Nanotechnology is currently being utilized in food production, processing, and packaging,
with applications ranging from antimicrobial coatings to nanoscale nutrient delivery
systems.
• However, the full extent of its adoption across the food industry remains unclear, as there is
no comprehensive tracking of companies employing these technologies. Additionally, many
companies may not disclose the use of nanotechnology due to proprietary concerns,
evolving regulations, or a lack of explicit labeling requirements.
• The nature of nanotechnology makes detection and enforcement challenging, as the
regulated component is invisible and requires specialized methods for identification.
• Investigations by the Department of Agriculture are expected to be complaint-based rather
than proactive, but the extent and frequency of complaints are unknown.
• Initial expenditures are assumed to be minimal due to the presumed low volume of
complaints, but increased public concern or wider adoption and awareness of
nanotechnology in food could significantly increase regulatory costs. The extent and timing
of such expenditures cannot be reasonably assumed. It is, however, assumed that any
increase in state expenditures in the near term will be not significant.
CERTIFICATION:
The information contained herein is true and correct to the best of my knowledge.
Bojan Savic, Executive Director