Tennessee House Bill HB2502

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/30/24
• Refer: 2/1/24
• Failed: 3/26/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 29; Title 33; Title 38; Title 39; Title 40; Title 41; Title 43; Title 45; Title 50; Title 53; Title 57; Title 63; Title 67; Title 68 and Title 71, relative to the "Tennessee Medical Autonomy Related to Cannabis Act."

Impact

If enacted, HB2502 will significantly alter the legal landscape of cannabis use in Tennessee. It establishes clear definitions for various terms within the context of cannabis laws, including what constitutes medical marijuana, qualifying patients, and permissible activities related to its use and distribution. The bill mandates that medical marijuana will be treated as a tangible personal property subject to sales tax, alongside setting a framework for local taxation of cannabis products. This regulatory structure aims to provide clarity and protection for both businesses and consumers, while also fortifying state control over cannabis sales against potential federal pushbacks.

Summary

House Bill 2502, titled the 'Tennessee Medical Autonomy Related to Cannabis Act', seeks to amend multiple sections of the Tennessee Code regarding the regulation of medical marijuana. The bill aims to create a comprehensive framework for the cultivation, distribution, and consumption of cannabis for medical purposes. It introduces strict licensing requirements for marijuana establishments, including growers, processors, and dispensaries, and establishes conditions under which patients can obtain medical marijuana. It emphasizes the importance of safeguarding consumer rights while promoting local agricultural businesses within Tennessee's cannabis market.

Contention

One notable point of contention related to HB2502 involves the balance between state regulation and local authority. The bill explicitly prohibits local governments from enacting regulations that would unreasonably restrict medical marijuana operations, although it still allows for some local governance on operational hours and business conduct. Opponents of the bill argue that this could lead to tensions over local jurisdiction and the ability of communities to respond to their specific needs regarding cannabis. Advocacy groups are likely to voice concerns regarding public health and safety, especially in relation to minors and the potential for abuse.