Senate Bill 171, also known as "The Ink of Hope Act," amends Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 62, Chapter 38, to enhance training requirements for tattoo operators and artists regarding human trafficking awareness. The bill mandates that, prior to receiving a permit, each tattoo operator or artist must complete up to one hour of training provided at no cost by a nonprofit organization approved by the Tennessee human trafficking advisory council. This training focuses on recognizing and responding to signs of human trafficking, referring clients to resources, and reporting to the Tennessee Human Trafficking Resource Center Hotline. Additionally, those renewing their licenses by December 31, 2025, must also complete this training by December 31, 2028, or their license will be rendered invalid.

The bill also modifies existing language in the law by replacing "local health department" with "local health department and must include questions on recognizing and reporting signs of human trafficking." Furthermore, it provides legal protections for licensed individuals and their employers who respond to or fail to respond to signs of human trafficking, ensuring they are not civilly or criminally liable for their actions or inactions. The act will take effect upon becoming law for rule promulgation purposes, while other provisions will take effect on January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 62-38-204(e), 62-38-204, 62-38-204(f)