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HB 343

Consumer Protection - As enacted, prohibits persons from selling, offering for sale, or offering a free sample of counterfeit lighters and unsafe lighters. - Amends TCA Title 39 and Title 47.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Kip Capley

Tennessee prohibits selling counterfeit and unsafe lighters to protect consumers from fire hazards and injuries through product safety enforcement.

Comp. became Pub. Ch. 20
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Bill Summary · HB 343

Legislative bill overview

HB 343 prohibits the sale, distribution, and free sampling of counterfeit and unsafe lighters in Tennessee. The bill amends consumer protection statutes (TCA Title 39 and Title 47) to establish legal restrictions and enforcement mechanisms against these products.

Why is this important

Counterfeit and unsafe lighters pose genuine fire and injury hazards, particularly to children who may access them. This legislation provides regulatory clarity and enforcement tools for Tennessee authorities to remove dangerous products from circulation and protect consumers from preventable accidents.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition clarity: The bill's effectiveness depends on precise definitions of "unsafe lighters"—ambiguous standards could create enforcement challenges or unintended consequences for legitimate manufacturers
  • Compliance burden: Small retailers and online sellers may face compliance costs in verifying lighter authenticity and safety, potentially affecting small businesses disproportionately
  • Enforcement resource: Success requires adequate state resources for inspections and monitoring; without sufficient funding, the law may become symbolic rather than substantive

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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