NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — Tattoo artists in Tennessee will soon have a new training requirement to recognize and help stop human trafficking.
The Tennessee General Assembly has passed the Ink of Hope Act, sponsored by State Rep. Mary Littleton (R-Dickson). The measure passed the House of Representatives on Monday, March 3, following passage in the Senate on Feb. 20. The bill now heads to Gov. Bill Lee for his signature.
The soon-to-be law 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 lifesaving legislation.”
Starting Jan. 1, 2026, tattoo artists renewing their licenses will be required to watch a short, accredited 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, according to Littleton.
Tennessee is the first state to pass such legislation requiring a formalized training program like this, though Nebraska and Wisconsin have awareness programs in place, according to Littleton’s office.
According to Littleton, the inspiration for the legislation came from her work on the Human Trafficking Advisory Council, the Second Look Commission and multiple conversations with nonprofits like Thistle Farms, which helps 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,” Thistle Farms CEO Tasha Kennard 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.
