House Bill 373 amends Tennessee Code Annotated regarding the licensing requirements for tattoo artists. The bill modifies Section 62-38-204 by deleting the existing subsection (g) and replacing it with new criteria for obtaining a tattoo artist license. Under the new provisions, applicants must complete at least one year of training in a certified shop under a licensed tattoo artist who has been certified and operating for at least three years, or who has been licensed in another state for ten years or more. Additionally, out-of-state tattoo artists can qualify by providing proof of two years of professional experience in another state, and those who were already in business in Tennessee as of October 1, 1996, are exempt from these new requirements.

The bill is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, emphasizing the importance of public welfare in its implementation. This legislative change aims to ensure that tattoo artists in Tennessee meet specific training and experience standards, thereby enhancing the professionalism and safety of tattooing practices in the state.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 62-38-204