Bill advances to fund prevention programs
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Tennessee House of Representatives this week advanced legislation to combat the use of vapor products utilized by underage consumers.
House Bill 2360, sponsored by State Rep. David Hawk, R-Greeneville, expands on House Bill 968 passed in 2025 to prevent underage vaping. The proposed law would distribute 30% of tax revenue from vapor products to counties for various youth nicotine prevention programs and services across Tennessee.
“We have unfortunately seen that these products are being sold to underage consumers, and we need to do all we can to ensure our youth are aware of the harmful, damaging effects of vapes and educate them well on healthier outlets,” said Hawk.
Vapes, like cigarettes, contain high levels of nicotine, which is not only highly addictive but has proven to harm the parts of an adolescent’s brain that controls attention, mood, and impulses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that e-cigarettes are the most commonly used tobacco product among middle and high school students. Amongmiddle school students, one in three use more than one type of tobacco product.
House Bill 2360 awaits consideration in the House Finance Ways and Means Committee.
Rep. David Hawk represents District 5, which includes Greene County.
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