Tennessee House Bill HB1487

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/8/26
• Refer: 1/14/26
• Failed: 3/11/26

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 47, Chapter 18; Title 53 and Title 68, relative to identifying the origins of food.

Impact

If enacted, HB1487 will significantly impact the food industry within Tennessee by establishing stringent requirements for food establishments. These establishments will be responsible for displaying accurate country-of-origin labels for covered commodities, enforcing transparency in the food supply chain. The bill aims to assist consumers in making informed decisions while also potentially impacting the purchasing decisions of local establishments based on the perceived quality and origin of food products. Additionally, any violations of this bill will incur penalties, which establishes a framework for accountability within the food service sector.

Summary

House Bill 1487 aims to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated by introducing regulations pertaining to the identification of the origins of certain food products. Specifically, the bill mandates that food establishments disclose the country of origin for covered commodities, which are defined primarily as farm-raised and wild fish. This act is intended to provide consumers with greater transparency regarding the foods they purchase, especially in relation to imported products. The act outlines the specific methods through which the origin of these products must be communicated at points of sale, ensuring that consumers are adequately informed about their food choices.

Contention

One potential point of contention surrounding HB1487 relates to the compliance burden it places on food establishments, especially small businesses that may struggle with the financial and logistical demands of implementing the new labeling requirements. Critics may argue that while the intention behind the bill is to enhance consumer rights and awareness, it could inadvertently create challenges for local businesses in terms of operational adjustments. Furthermore, there may be discussions on the effectiveness of such labeling in genuinely influencing consumer behavior and whether it addresses broader issues in the food supply chain.