Tennessee committee amends House Bill 373 to streamline tattoo artist apprenticeship

The House Commerce Committee of the Tennessee House of Representatives convened on March 19, 2025, to discuss several legislative matters, including House Bill 373 and House Bill 972. The meeting was marked by a series of motions, amendments, and discussions led by various representatives.

The first item on the agenda was House Bill 373, presented by Representative Shaw. The bill, which pertains to the licensing of tattoo artists in Tennessee, underwent an amendment process. Representative Shaw expressed enthusiasm for the bill, noting that the amendment would reduce the apprenticeship period for new tattoo artists from two years to one year. This change allows aspiring tattoo artists to work under a licensed professional in Tennessee for one year before obtaining their own license. Following a motion and a second, the committee voted unanimously in favor of the amendment, with 22 ayes and no opposition. The bill was subsequently approved to move forward in the legislative process.

Next, the committee turned its attention to House Bill 972, introduced by Representative Boot McCalmon. Representative McCalmon indicated that there were two amendments to consider for this bill. The first amendment, identified by drafting code 003869, was motioned and seconded, receiving approval from the committee without opposition. The discussion then shifted to the second amendment, although details regarding this amendment were not provided in the transcript.

Overall, the meeting proceeded efficiently, with both bills receiving favorable attention from the committee members. The discussions highlighted the committee's focus on facilitating the licensing process for tattoo artists and addressing additional legislative matters through proposed amendments. The next steps for both bills will involve further consideration in the legislative calendar.