Tennessee House Bill HB2749

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/24
• Refer: 2/5/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39; Title 43, Chapter 27 and Chapter 423 of the Public Acts of 2023, relative to cannabis.

Impact

In terms of the impact on state laws, HB2749 introduces new requirements for hemp producers to contract testing with licensed third-party laboratories. This establishes stricter regulatory standards for hemp sales and improves accountability throughout the supply chain. Retailers and suppliers are also mandated to maintain detailed records of the products sold, which must be available for inspection by law enforcement and relevant departments. This creates a more rigorous oversight mechanism intended to prevent non-compliant products from reaching consumers.

Summary

House Bill 2749 seeks to amend specific sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated related to hemp and cannabis regulation. The primary focus of the bill is on the sale and testing of hemp products to ensure that they contain delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) at a concentration of three-tenths of one percent (0.3%) or less. This amendment is crucial for ensuring the safety and legality of hemp-derived products in the state, providing a framework for hemp producers to test their goods before sale, thus safeguarding consumer health.

Contention

Notably, the bill may lead to points of contention among various stakeholders, including hemp producers, retailers, and state regulators. Proponents argue that the bill enhances the legitimacy and safety of the hemp market, promoting consumer trust. Critics, however, may view the increased regulatory burdens as a potential threat to smaller operators in the hemp industry who might struggle with compliance costs. Additionally, the amendment regarding the definition of marijuana to include synthesized hemp products exceeding the THC limit could lead to debates around enforcement and legal implications for consumers and businesses alike.