Lawmakers in the U.S. state of Tennessee have introduced a new bill that would significantly tighten regulations on tobacco and vaping product sales. The proposal, S.B. 2086, also known as the “Tobacco Product Retail Licensing Act”, would require retailers to obtain a new state license and restrict tobacco transactions to in-person, over-the-counter sales at licensed locations.

Key Takeaways

• Country/Region: Tennessee, United States
• Bill: S.B. 2086 (Tobacco Product Retail Licensing Act)
• Core change: Retailers selling tobacco or e-cigarette products must obtain a tobacco product retail license
• Enforcement powers: Underage compliance checks, seizure of illegal products, and creation of a licensed retailer database
• Penalties: Civil fines starting at $500, up to $20,000 for repeat violations, with possible license suspension
• Sales restrictions: Tobacco products must be sold via face-to-face, in-store counter transactions; non–in-person sales and delivery would be prohibited

What the Bill Proposes

According to reporting by Halfwheel, S.B. 2086 would impose stricter requirements on retailers selling tobacco and vaping products in Tennessee and could effectively ban direct-to-consumer shipping of products such as cigars.

The bill would place tobacco products under the regulatory authority of the Tennessee Alcohol Commission.

Retail Licensing Requirements

Under the proposal, any retailer wishing to sell tobacco or e-cigarette products in Tennessee would be required to obtain a new tobacco product retail license. The application fee would be $250, with an additional $250 annual renewal fee.

Enforcement and Penalties

Violations of the law would initially result in a $500 civil fine. Repeated violations could lead to fines of up to $20,000, along with potential suspension of the retailer’s license.

The bill would also authorize the Tennessee Alcohol Commission to conduct underage compliance checks, seize prohibited products, and establish and maintain a database of licensed tobacco retailers statewide.

Impact on Sales Methods

One of the most significant provisions for consumers and retailers is the requirement that all tobacco product sales must be completed in person at the counter of a licensed retail location.

The bill explicitly states that licensed retailers, their agents, or employees may not sell, offer for sale, or deliver tobacco products through non–face-to-face or non–counter transactions.

Based on the bill’s wording, this restriction could also affect alternative sales methods such as phone orders with in-store pickup or curbside pickup conducted outside the store.

Legislative Background

S.B. 2086 was introduced by Republican State Senator Shane Reeves, with four additional Republican co-sponsors. Reeves, a licensed pharmacist, has long advocated for stricter tobacco regulation at the state level.

Source note: This article is an English translation/adaptation of the provided Chinese summary, referencing 2Firsts (Jan 28, 2026) and Halfwheel reporting.