Senate Bill 2086, known as the "Tobacco Product Retail Licensing Act," introduces comprehensive regulations for the sale and distribution of tobacco products, including vapor products, in Tennessee. The bill establishes a new chapter in the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically Title 57, which defines key terms related to tobacco products and creates a Tobacco Product Enforcement Fund. It mandates that all tobacco product retailers apply for a license, pay a nonrefundable fee of $250, and adhere to regulations aimed at protecting public health and safety. The legislation also outlines penalties for violations, including civil fines and potential license suspension or revocation, while emphasizing the necessity of age verification to prevent sales to individuals under 21.

The bill enforces stricter compliance measures, requiring retailers to verify customers' ages through government-issued photo identification and to demand ID from all individuals entering age-restricted venues. Retailers must also display a conspicuous sign warning against the sale of tobacco products to those under 21 and are prohibited from conducting delivery sales. To ensure adherence to these regulations, the bill mandates annual compliance checks by the commission, utilizing a lottery system with underage individuals attempting to purchase tobacco. An online database of licensed retailers will be created and updated monthly for relevant authorities. The bill includes a severability provision and is set to take effect for administrative purposes upon becoming law, with full implementation scheduled for January 1, 2027.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 67-4-1029