Tennessee Marijuana Laws
Is marijuana legal in Tennessee? And what do Tennessee marijuana laws have to say about medical cannabis or the possession of marijuana? In this guide, we’ll cover all you need to know about Tennessee cannabis laws, including a look at whether is marijuana legalized in Tennessee and how the state’s laws have changed over time.
Is Marijuana Legal in Tennessee?
No, at this point in time, Tennessee marijuana laws are clear on the matter of marijuana legality: marijuana is illegal in all forms. There are no Tennessee medical marijuana laws to allow for the medical usage of cannabis, nor is it permitted for recreational purposes. Even possession of marijuana in small amounts can lead to strict punishments.
Is Medical Marijuana Legal?
For now, no, Tennessee is one of the only states in the US to still not provide any access to legal medical marijuana.
Is Recreational Marijuana Legal?
No, the recreational usage of cannabis is illegal in the state of Tennessee.
The History of Marijuana Laws in Tennessee
While other states have been introducing various bills and laws to change the way marijuana is used, sold, and treated among the public, Tennessee marijuana laws haven’t changed much over the years. Cannabis has been fully illegal in this country for decades, although there have been some attempts to modify the situation.
For example, in 2015, Governor Bill Haslam signed a new bill into law to legalize the possession and usage of high-CBD, low-THC oil to treat certain specific medical conditions, like epilepsy. However, the bill doesn’t actually allow for the purchase or sale of cannabis products within the state, so it involves patients having to find CBD oil elsewhere and then use it in the state.
In addition, from 2015 onward, various cities across the state of Tennesse, like Nashville and Memphis, introduced new efforts to decriminalize possession of cannabis in small quantities, so that those found with little amounts of marijuana may only receive small fines in Memphis, and all charges of possession for anything less than 1/2 oz are automatically dropped in Nashville.
Tennessee Marijuana Laws
In this section, we’ll look at some of the specifics of Tennessee marijuana laws, examining how the state regards possession, sale, cultivation, and so on.
Possession & Purchase
It is illegal to possess any marijuana in the state of Tennessee. Even an amount of under 1/2 oz can be classed as a misdemeanor and may be punished with a year behind bars or a fine. Punishments for larger quantities are more severe, and the sentencing for the sale of marijuana can involve decades in prison, depending on the quantities involved.
How Much Can I Buy and Possess?
It is illegal to buy or possess any quantity of cannabis in Tennessee.
Where Can I Obtain Cannabis?
There are no official cannabis dispensaries or retailers in Tennessee.
Who Can Legally Purchase Cannabis in Tennessee?
Nobody can legally purchase cannabis in the state of Tennessee.
Home Cultivation
Home cultivation of marijuana plants is illegal in Tennessee and may be punished with long prison sentences and large fines, depending on the number of plants.
Reciprocity
There is no reciprocity between Tennessee and other states in terms of medical marijuana programs or laws.
Consumption
Tennessee marijuana lawfully outlaws all consumption of marijuana, both recreationally and medically.
Where Can I Safely Consume Cannabis?
You cannot consume cannabis anywhere in this state.
Qualifying Patients
Medical marijuana is not allowed for sale or use in Tennessee, regardless of a patient’s health state or existing conditions. However, those with certain epileptic conditions, as well as cancer, ALS, Alzheimer’s, MS, Parkinson’s, and a few other conditions may qualify for the usage of CBD oil with low THC concentrations.
To be eligible for the usage of CBD oil in Tennessee, patients must obtain a recommendation from a licensed medical marijuana doctor, and the CBD oil must be obtained legally from a licensed dispensary.
Transportation
It is illegal to transport marijuana in this state.
Driving
It is illegal to drive while under the influence of marijuana in Tennessee.
Expungement
You may be able to have a simple possession charge of marijuana expunged in the state of Tennessee with the aid of an attorney, but this will depend on the circumstances of the case.
How to Obtain a Medical Card?
Since Tennessee does not allow medical marijuana, there isn’t a Tennessee medical marijuana card program. However, you may still be able to get a card to show you qualify for the use of low-THC CBD oil.
Tennessee marijuana laws continue to remain strict and firm regarding the sale or usage of cannabis for any purpose. This may change in the future, but for now, Tennessee continues to be one of an increasingly small number of states with no medicinal marijuana program.
