The General Assembly has unanimously approved legislation adding human trafficking awareness training to Tennessee tattoo artist licensing requirements.
Tennessee becomes first state to formalize training program for tattoo artists
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The General Assembly has unanimously approved legislation adding human trafficking awareness training to Tennessee tattoo artist licensing requirements.
The Ink of Hope Act, sponsored by State Rep. Mary Littleton, R-Dickson, requires tattoo shop operators and artists to complete up to one hour of training on recognizing and reporting signs of human trafficking.
“Traffickers often brand their victims with tattoos and The Ink of Hope Act ensures tattoo artists are educated and equipped to report vital information to authorities without intervening themselves,” Littleton said. “I’m grateful to my colleagues in the General Assembly for supporting this potentially life-saving legislation.”
A 2022 survey of 40 U.S. anti-trafficking organizations showed 47% of survivors reported being branded or tagged with a tattoo by their trafficker.
When renewing their license, artists will be required to watch a short, accredited training video on the signs of human trafficking and how to safely report it to authorities.
The act also includes protections for artists, ensuring they are not held liable by the state or courts for their decision to report or not report human trafficking.
While states like Nebraska and Wisconsin have awareness efforts in place, Tennessee is the first state to formalize a training program like this for tattoo artists.
This is not the first time the Tennessee General Assembly has enacted similar awareness training. Since 2021, cosmetologists and barbers are required to complete up to one hour of domestic violence awareness training to recognize potential signs in their clients.
This legislation was inspired through Littleton’s work on the Human Trafficking Advisory Council, Second Look Commission and multiple conversations with nonprofits, like Thistle Farms, who help survivors rebuild their lives.
“We are beyond grateful to the survivors and advocates whose lived experience influenced this legislation and to Rep. Littleton, Sen. Massey, and the entire Tennessee General Assembly for their sweeping support of The Ink of Hope Act,” Tasha Kennard, Thistle Farms CEO, said. “This bill is one more way that Tennessee will continue to lead the nation in the fight against human trafficking, letting the world know that we believe every person’s dignity matters.”
Once signed into law, tattoo artists will be responsible for completing the training for all renewals beginning Jan. 1, 2026.
If you or someone you know may be a victim of human trafficking, please call the Tennessee Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-800-55-TNHTH or 1-800-558-6484.
Mary Littleton represents District 78 which includes Cheatham and part of Dickson Counties.
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