Hensley Highlights New State Laws from 2025 Session

State Sen. Joey Hensley, M.D., has outlined several new Tennessee laws passed during the 2025 session of the 114th General Assembly that focus on consumer protection, public safety, and support for independent workers.

One new law tightens regulations on the sale of vape products to curb access by minors. It raises the age threshold for ID checks from 30 to 50, establishes a statewide database of FDA-approved or pending products, and gives law enforcement additional tools to block illegal vape products. The changes take effect Jan. 1, 2026.

Lawmakers also approved stricter oversight of hemp-derived cannabinoid products. The bill bans the sale of psychoactive substances such as THCa and THCp, limits product potency and container sizes, and transfers regulation to the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission. It also creates new wholesale taxes expected to generate more than $100 million annually beginning in 2027.

Another new measure, the Voluntary Portable Benefit Act, is designed to help gig workers, musicians, freelancers, and other independent contractors access benefits such as health coverage, retirement savings, and paid leave. Companies may choose to contribute to worker-controlled benefit accounts without changing employment classifications, and workers may also make voluntary contributions.