News: Bills Introduced to Legalize Recreational, Medical Cannabis in Tennessee.
Published 10:00 AM EST, Weds February 05, 2025
On Tuesday, Sen. Jeff Yarbro (D-Nashville) introduced SB 0809, which is the Tennessee Cannabis Act. The act is an amendment to allow for personal or recreational marijuana use while creating rules for dispensaries to produce, distribute and sell cannabis products.
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Tennessee lawmakers are pushing for significant cannabis reform through two proposed bills addressing both recreational and medical use. Sen. Jeff Yarbro (D-Nashville) introduced SB 0809, the Tennessee Cannabis Act, which would legalize the personal use, possession, and transportation of up to 60 grams of marijuana for adults aged 21 and older. The bill also permits home cultivation of up to 12 plants in a secure area and establishes a framework for dispensaries to produce, distribute, and sell cannabis products, potentially creating a new regulated market in the state.
Complementing this, Rep. Iris Rudder (R-Winchester) introduced HB 0872, the Tennessee Medical Cannabis Act, which seeks to provide regulated access to medical cannabis for patients with qualifying conditions. This bill would authorize the production, distribution, and sale of medical cannabis under state oversight, ensuring accessibility for medical use while maintaining regulatory compliance. The act is designed to create a structured market for medical cannabis, aligning Tennessee with other states that have implemented medical marijuana programs.
From an industry perspective, these bills signal a shift toward an emerging cannabis economy in Tennessee, opening opportunities for cultivators, dispensaries, and ancillary businesses. The medical cannabis act highlights broader economic and research incentives, including agricultural development, THC research, and streamlined licensing systems. If passed, these laws could position Tennessee as a key player in the evolving U.S. cannabis market, attracting investment and fostering industry growth while providing public health benefits.
Source: WSMV Nashville