What Are the Latest Developments in Tennessee’s Cannabis Legislation?

The Tennessee General Assembly has been actively addressing cannabis-related legislation. The “Tennessee Medical Cannabis Act” has been introduced, which aims to regulate the medical use of cannabis. This legislation, if passed, would establish a medical cannabis commission to study and provide recommendations for the medical use of cannabis in the state, particularly if cannabis is reclassified or declassified at the federal level.

Significant developments include the Tennessee Open Meetings Act, which ensures transparency in governmental proceedings, including those related to the medical cannabis commission. Discussions and decisions about the medical use of cannabis are subject to this act, guaranteeing public access to meetings and information.

Moreover, Tennessee has differentiated between hemp, defined as Cannabis sativa containing less than 0.3% THC, and marijuana, which contains more than 0.3% THC. While hemp cultivation is legal in the state, marijuana remains illegal.

Another important piece of legislation is the “Free All Cannabis for Tennesseans Act,” which would authorize possession and transport of marijuana in specified amounts for adults over 21. Additionally, a new sales tax has been introduced for products containing hemp-derived cannabinoids, effective July 1, 2023.

For more detailed information on these legislative efforts, you can explore the official Tennessee General Assembly website or review specific bills such as HB0085, SB168, and SB1461HB0085, SB1104, SB1461.