Tennessee House Bill HB2670

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/31/24
• Refer: 3/6/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 43; Title 57 and Title 67, relative to hemp-derived products.

Impact

The bill focuses on setting a standard for how hemp-derived products are marketed to the public, particularly regarding the age restrictions on their purchase. By establishing a requirement for retailers to post a conspicuous notice about the age limit and additional information as deemed necessary by the commission, the bill aims to protect younger consumers and ensure that they are not misled about the products they are purchasing. The anticipated outcome of the legislation is an improvement in public knowledge regarding the responsible use of these potentially controversial products.

Summary

House Bill 2670 aims to amend certain sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated, specifically under Titles 43, 57, and 67, in relation to hemp-derived products. The core provision of the bill mandates the development of requirements for a notice to be displayed prominently by retailers who sell hemp-derived cannabinoid products. This notice is intended to inform consumers about age restrictions and other pertinent health and safety information. The goal of these provisions is to enhance consumer awareness and safety in the retail of hemp-based products, which have gained popularity in the state.

Contention

While there seems to be no substantial public opposition documented in the discourse around HB2670, the introduction of any regulations on hemp-derived products could spark debates around consumer rights and free market principles. Stakeholders may express that while the intention behind such regulations is to safeguard public health, it may also inhibit the ability of businesses to operate freely and could introduce bureaucratic hurdles that complicate the sale of these goods. Potential contention may arise concerning the balance between consumer protection and business regulation.

Implementation

The act is set to take effect upon becoming law, on or before July 1, 2024, emphasizing the urgency of preparing retailers for the new requirements. This timeline indicates a proactive approach by lawmakers to ensure that both retailers and consumers understand these new stipulations in a timely manner, thus facilitating a smoother transition into the updated legal framework governing hemp-derived products in Tennessee.