Tennessee Senate Bill SB1829

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/23/24

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 "Medical Autonomy Related to Cannabis Act."

Impact

The legislation allows for the issuance of licenses for multiple types of cannabis operations, with a focus on creating a competitive intrastate market. It imposes application and annual fees that are tiered based on the size of the grow operation, with specific regulations on advertising, safety measures, and product labeling. Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of protecting local markets from monopolistic practices. The bill also includes provisions for the allocation of tax revenue generated from cannabis sales, funding various state programs, including educational initiatives regarding cannabis use.

Summary

Senate Bill 1829, known as the 'Medical Autonomy Related to Cannabis Act,' amends various titles within the Tennessee Code to establish a comprehensive legal framework for the medical cannabis industry. The bill outlines definitions related to cannabis, establishes regulatory authorities, and includes provisions for licensing medical marijuana establishments, such as growers, processors, and dispensaries. One of its core aims is to protect the medical autonomy of Tennessee residents by ensuring access to safe and regulated cannabis for therapeutic use.

Contention

Notably, the bill includes a section that allows local governments to enact bans on cannabis sales through a two-thirds vote, but such bans would expire one year from their effective date. This aspect has raised concerns about local autonomy versus state-level control over cannabis regulations. Additionally, the bill provides for exemptions from certain legal repercussions related to cannabis use, which could lead to discussions around its implications for public and workplace safety. The interplay between local rights and state authority is likely to be a significant point of contention in future discussions surrounding the bill and its implementation.