Tennessee is one of only nine states that doesn't require tobacco retailers to obtain a license. Without a strong licensure system, we can’t locate and stop bad actors who are selling tobacco products to children.
Nearly half (48%) of 10th grade students say it would be easy to get vaping devices if they wanted to. 22.2% of youth e-cigarette users report obtaining e-cigarettes from a vape shop or tobacco shop in the past month and 17.7% from a gas station or convenience store.
A strong retail licensing system means we can monitor where tobacco products are being sold and who they’re being sold to in Tennessee — especially to vulnerable youth.
A comprehensive retailer licensing system simply means retailers are required to apply for a license, pay a licensing fee, and be subject to inspection. Bad actors who consistently violate the law — not responsible retailers — face escalating penalties and fines, including possible license suspension or revocation.
A licensing system provides Tennessee with an official list of all nicotine and tobacco retailers throughout the state. This enables for consistent, fair enforcement of the law and provides important data to local communities and families. Licensing fees and fines fund the program, meaning there is little financial impact to the state’s budget.
