Tennessee’s HB 0968: A Direct Attack on Alternative Nicotine Products and Adult Consumer Choice
Update 3/2/25
H.B 821 strengthens age verification requirements for the sale and distribution of tobacco and related products, raising the age appearance threshold for proof of age from twenty-nine to fifty years and setting an effective date of July 1, 2025.
• Hearing 9:00AM March 5th House Criminal Justice Subcommittee on Criminal
Justice
• H.B. 968 – regulates vapor products, establishing new definitions, tax rates, and a
compliance directory, with enforcement measures and penalties for non-compliance,
effective July 1, 2025.
• Hearing 11:00AM March 3rd House Committee on Government Operations
Tennessee is facing a dangerous piece of legislation that threatens adult access to combustible cigarette alternatives. HB 0968, disguised as a regulatory measure, is a backdoor prohibition on vapor products—a move that would eliminate much of the industry and strip adults of their right to choose a superior alternatives to smoking.
What Does HB 0968 Do?
This bill would create an unnecessary state licensing system for vapor products, adding layers of red tape that will make it difficult, if not impossible, for small businesses to comply. It also grants excessive enforcement powers to the state, allowing government agencies to shut down businesses and seize products without due process. This is nothing short of government overreach that will harm small businesses and consumers alike.
Who Does This Bill Hurt?
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Small Businesses – Independent vape shops and distributors will face massive compliance costs that could drive them out of business. Meanwhile, big corporations with deep pockets will be able to absorb these costs, creating an unfair market.
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Adult Consumers – Millions of Tennesseans have successfully rejected smoking in favor of vaping. This bill would limit access to the products that help them avoid traditional tobacco products.
- Public Health – Studies, including a 2024 Cochrane Review, confirm that vaping is the most effective tool available. Studies have shown that restricting access, bills like this push more adults back to smoking and increase cigarette sales.
The Real Agenda: Protecting Big Tobacco
Make no mistake—this bill does not protect public health; it protects Big Tobacco and their government allies. Traditional cigarette sales have been declining for years, thanks to vaping. By restricting access to vapor products, HB 0968 ensures cigarette sales stay strong, benefitting state tax revenue while hurting public health.
Take Action NOW!
We must stand up for harm reduction and consumer choice. Tell Tennessee lawmakers to VOTE NO on HB 0968 before it’s too late!
Fill out the VTA Call to Action here.
📢 Spread the word—share this post and let others know what’s at stake.
The future of vaping in Tennessee is on the line. If we don’t fight back now, we could lose access to products embraced by adult nicotine consumers and force them into the arms of Big Tobacco. Say NO to HB 0968!
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