Tennessee House Bill HB2413

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/24
• Refer: 2/1/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 29, Chapter 38; Title 39; Title 40; Title 53, Chapter 11; Title 67; Title 68 and Title 71, relative to marijuana.

Impact

The implications of HB2413 extend into several areas of state law, particularly those governing controlled substances and the sale of goods. This bill is expected to shift the legal landscape surrounding marijuana by reducing criminal penalties for possession while also establishing a framework for legal commerce. It introduces taxation on marijuana sales which, if successful, could provide a new revenue stream for the state. Revenue generated from this sales tax is earmarked for educational purposes and infrastructure projects, addressing both economic development and public awareness.

Summary

House Bill 2413 aims to amend various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated to create a legal framework for the regulated sale and possession of marijuana. The bill specifies the conditions under which individuals and entities may grow, process, manufacture, distribute, or sell marijuana, establishing guidelines for compliance with local zoning laws. Notably, it permits adult consumers aged twenty-one and older to purchase marijuana in specified quantities from licensed retail locations, thereby laying groundwork for a recreational marijuana market in Tennessee.

Contention

While HB2413 sets forth a comprehensive plan for the legal sale of marijuana, it is anticipated that the bill will encounter opposition based on concerns about public health, safety, and regulatory oversight. Critics may argue that introducing a recreational marijuana market could lead to increased substance abuse among minors and potential public disorder. Supporters counter that regulation can mitigate these risks and generate significant economic benefits. The nuances within the bill regarding penalties for violations, especially in relation to minors, may also be points of contention among legislators and community members.