Tennessee House Bill HB2228

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/2/26
• Refer: 2/5/26

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39; Title 57, Chapter 7 and Title 67, relative to the sale of products.

Impact

If enacted, HB2228 would introduce rigorous penalties for violations associated with the unlawful sale of nitrous oxide. Retailers found guilty of selling nitrous oxide would face escalating civil penalties, starting at $500 for first-time offenses and reaching up to $1,500 for repeated violations. Further penalties could also involve the suspension or revocation of retail licenses, thereby significantly impacting vape shops and their ability to operate within Tennessee. This legislation aims to deter the distribution of nitrous oxide in contexts that may endanger public health.

Summary

House Bill 2228 aims to amend various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically targeting the sale and distribution of nitrous oxide by vape shop retailers and associated entities. The bill ensures that nitrous oxide cannot be sold as a product by vape shops, with specific definitions provided for vape shops and their products. This legislation is primarily introduced as a measure to enhance public safety and curb illegal distribution practices related to nitrous oxide, often misused recreationally or illegally.

Contention

While the bill is positioned as a necessary step for public safety, it may evoke contention regarding its enforcement and implications for retailers. Business owners could express concerns about the stringent penalties and the potential impact on their operations, especially if misinterpretations of sale practices lead to unintended violations. Additionally, there could be pushback regarding whether the legislation effectively addresses the supposed misuse of nitrous oxide or if it might inadvertently stifle legitimate selling practices in regulated environments.