Tennessee’s Marijuana Laws

Marijuana remains illegal for recreational use in Tennessee, including in Nashville. Unlike many states that have decriminalized or legalized cannabis, Tennessee enforces strict laws against possession, distribution, and cultivation. State drug laws classify marijuana as a controlled substance, and even small amounts can result in criminal charges.

• Possession of half an ounce or less is considered a misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine of $250 to $2,500.
• The sale or distribution of marijuana is a felony offense, with penalties increasing based on the quantity involved.
• Cultivating cannabis, even for personal use, is illegal and can lead to severe criminal charges.
• Unlike some states, Tennessee does not have a process for expunging marijuana-related offenses from criminal records.

Medical Marijuana in Tennessee
Tennessee has a very limited medical marijuana program that only permits the use of low-THC cannabis oil. Patients with qualifying conditions may legally possess cannabis oil that contains no more than 0.9% THC, but they cannot grow or purchase marijuana within the state. Medical cannabis laws do not allow for dispensaries or regulated access to marijuana products.

• Only individuals with conditions such as epilepsy and intractable seizures may qualify for low-THC cannabis oil.
• The law does not allow for the sale or production of medical marijuana within Tennessee.
• Patients must obtain their cannabis oil from out of state, creating potential legal risks.
• There is no comprehensive medical marijuana program, and efforts to expand access have faced strong opposition.

Decriminalization Efforts in Nashville
While Tennessee has not decriminalized marijuana at the state level, Nashville has attempted to reduce penalties for minor possession. Local policies aim to limit arrests, but they do not override state law.

• Nashville police have been instructed to issue citations rather than arrest individuals for minor marijuana possession.
• The district attorney’s office has announced that it will not prosecute low-level marijuana offenses in most cases.
• Despite these local efforts, Tennessee law still considers possession a criminal offense, meaning individuals could face charges outside of Davidson County.
• Lawmakers have pushed for statewide decriminalization, but legislative action remains slow.

Can You Buy CBD in Nashville?
CBD derived from hemp is legal in Tennessee as long as it contains less than 0.3% THC. The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp at the federal level, allowing businesses in Nashville to sell CBD products.

• CBD oils, edibles, and topicals are legal and widely available in Nashville.
• Products must comply with federal and state regulations to ensure they do not contain illegal levels of THC.
• Some law enforcement agencies have cracked down on mislabeled CBD products, leading to legal confusion.
• Consumers should verify lab reports and purchase from trusted sources to avoid potential legal issues.

Future of Marijuana Legalization in Tennessee
Despite growing support for marijuana reform, Tennessee lawmakers have been slow to adopt legalization or decriminalization policies. Neighboring states have taken steps to ease restrictions, increasing pressure on Tennessee to reconsider its approach. Legislative trends suggest that change may come in the future, but there are no immediate plans for legalization.

• Polls indicate public support for medical marijuana, but political resistance remains strong.
• Some state lawmakers are pushing for decriminalization, but progress has been limited.
• Tennessee’s stance on cannabis reform lags behind that of many neighboring states.
• Advocacy groups continue to push for legislative change, but there are no guarantees that legalization efforts will succeed soon.

How Lawyers Corner Can Help
Tennessee’s marijuana laws are among the strictest in the country, and even minor possession can result in serious legal consequences. If you or a loved one is facing marijuana-related charges, Lawyers Corner connects you with experienced attorneys who can help navigate Tennessee’s complex drug laws.

For legal assistance, visit Lawyers Corner’s contact page to get in touch with a qualified attorney. Don’t take risks with your future—seek professional legal help today.