Tobacco, Tobacco Products - As introduced, increases, from a Class C to a Class A misdemeanor, the penalty for selling or distributing a vapor product to an individual under 21 years of age; requires retailers of vapor products to obtain a license for such retail sales from the department of commerce and insurance; provides for civil penalties for violations by licensees. - Amends TCA Title 39, Chapter 17, Part 15 and Title 62.

HB 1008 increases penalties for selling vapor products to minors in Tennessee, elevating violations to a Class A misdemeanor (a more serious criminal charge) from a Class C misdemeanor. It requires all vape retailers to obtain a $250 annual license from the Department of Commerce and Insurance starting December 1, 2025, and mandates face-to-face sales only at licensed, age-restricted businesses (requiring ID verification for all customers). The bill also establishes civil penalties for license violations and defines key terms like "vapor product" and "age-restricted business." This directly affects vape retailers and underage buyers by creating new licensing requirements and stricter enforcement mechanisms.