The legislative landscape in Tennessee is undergoing significant changes with recent proposals and discussions around the legalization and regulation of cannabis. A notable development is the introduction of the “Free All Cannabis for Tennesseans Act,” which seeks to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework for the cultivation, processing, and retail sale of marijuana and marijuana products in the state. This act, which amends various titles in the Tennessee Code Annotated (TCA), is to be administered by the Department of Agriculture.
Another critical piece of legislation is the “Tennessee Medical Cannabis Act,” which aims to create a medical cannabis program managed by the Medical Cannabis Commission. This act also proposes amendments to multiple titles in the TCA, indicating a holistic approach to the integration of medical cannabis into the state’s healthcare and regulatory systems.
The Tennessee General Assembly’s actions reflect a growing trend towards the acceptance and regulation of cannabis, both for medical and recreational purposes. These legislative efforts are accompanied by public discussions and meetings, such as the TN Medical Cannabis Commission Meeting scheduled for October 30, 2023, emphasizing the state’s commitment to a transparent and inclusive policymaking process.
Interestingly, the distinction between hemp and marijuana is also being addressed in Tennessee. While hemp, defined as Cannabis sativa with less than 0.3% THC, is legalized, marijuana (Cannabis sativa with more than 0.3% THC) remains illegal. This differentiation is crucial for the state’s agricultural and legal frameworks.
Regarding the fiscal implications, the Tennessee General Assembly Fiscal Review Committee has prepared a fiscal note for HB 85 – SB 168, which supports the “Free All Cannabis for Tennesseans Act.” This document outlines the potential financial impacts of legalizing and regulating cannabis, highlighting the economic considerations of such legislative changes.
As these legislative efforts progress, they mark a significant shift in Tennessee’s stance on cannabis, aligning with a broader national movement towards legalization and regulation. The outcome of these bills and the public’s response will be pivotal in shaping the state’s legal and social landscape concerning cannabis use and regulation.
Further insights into these developments can be found at the following links:
HB0085 Bill Information
SB1411 Bill Information
SB1104 Bill Information
TN Medical Cannabis Commission Meeting Notice
Hemp & Marijuana – Tennessee State Government
