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Tennessee Cannabis Legalization Status, Current Laws & Job Prospects

Tennessee Cannabis Legal Status, Laws, and Jobs 2024

Tennessee Cannabis Legalization Status, Current Laws & Job Prospects

Tennessee Cannabis Legalization

Medical: Currently not legal. Despite ongoing discussions and legislative attempts, a comprehensive medical cannabis program hasn’t been established in Tennessee. However, a limited program allowing use of high-CBD, low-THC cannabis oil for seizure patients exists.
Recreational: Not legal. Tennessee remains one of the few states where neither medical nor recreational cannabis is legal. However, there have been growing efforts for medical cannabis legalization, including recent legislative proposals and increased public support.

Current TN Cannabis Laws:

  • Possession: Any amount of cannabis is a misdemeanor for adults 21+. Penalties increase for larger quantities and can also involve jail time and fines.
  • Limited Medical Use: Qualifying patients with epilepsy and severe seizures can legally possess and use high-CBD, low-THC cannabis oil with a doctor’s recommendation and state registration.
  • Consumption: Public consumption of cannabis is strictly prohibited for any purpose. Private consumption remains illegal for all forms of cannabis except the approved CBD oil for seizure patients.
  • Driving: Driving under the influence of cannabis is a DUI and carries significant consequences.
  • Sales: Selling or cultivating cannabis, regardless of quantity or medical status, is a felony with serious legal repercussions.

Cannabis Job Prospects in TN:

  • Limited Job Opportunities:
    • Since recreational and medical cannabis are not legal in Tennessee, the job market specifically focused on the cannabis industry is non-existent.
    • Some ancillary jobs related to hemp cultivation and research might be available, but these opportunities are likely scarce and competitive.
  • While resources focused solely on cannabis jobs are lacking in Tennessee, you can explore these options for potential opportunities:

Tennessee Cannabis FAQs:

Is CBD Legal in Tennessee?

Yes, CBD is legal in Tennessee with certain stipulations. The CBD must be derived from hemp, not marijuana. Hemp is defined as a cannabis plant with less than 0.3% THC, the psychoactive component that produces the “high” associated with marijuana.

THC content: The actual CBD product, whether it’s oil, gummies, cream, etc., must also have a THC content below 0.3%. Therefore, hemp-derived CBD with a THC content below 0.3% is completely legal to purchase, possess, and use in Tennessee.

Here are some additional points to keep in mind:

  1. Marijuana-derived CBD: CBD derived from marijuana, which typically has higher THC levels, is still illegal in Tennessee.
  2. Regulation: While legal, CBD is not yet heavily regulated in Tennessee. Be sure to purchase your CBD from reputable sources that can provide you with lab testing results to verify the THC content.
  3. Employment: Even though CBD is legal, some employers may still have policies against its use.

For more detailed and current information, you can check the following resources:

Can I get a medical cannabis card in TN?

No, you cannot get a medical cannabis card in Tennessee as of October 2023. Medical cannabis remains illegal in the state. Despite public and legislative efforts to introduce a program, none have been successful.

Current Legislation:

  • Although several bills proposing a medical cannabis program have been introduced in the Tennessee Legislature, none have passed both chambers and been signed into law.
  • This means the state currently lacks any legal framework for obtaining and using medical cannabis.

Limited Options:

  • Due to the illegality of medical cannabis, residents with qualifying conditions cannot legally obtain a medical cannabis card in Tennessee.
  • Some neighboring states, like Arkansas and Missouri, do have medical cannabis programs, but accessing them would require relocation or cross-border travel, which poses legal risks.

Alternatives:

  • While medical cannabis is not available, patients in Tennessee can explore alternative treatment options for their qualifying conditions.
  • Consulting with their doctor for traditional medications, therapies, or other evidence-based management strategies is crucial.

Future Prospects:

  • The national trend towards cannabis legalization, coupled with growing public support in Tennessee, suggests potential changes in the future.
  • Continuing to voice support for a medical cannabis program through advocacy groups and contacting legislators can contribute to legislative progress.
  • Staying informed about any legislative developments or upcoming ballot initiatives related to medical cannabis is essential.

Important Note:

  • Possessing or using any amount of cannabis, including for medical purposes, remains illegal in Tennessee and can result in penalties ranging from fines to jail time.

Remember, exercising caution is crucial when seeking medical cannabis treatment in Tennessee due to the current legal restrictions. Prioritize legal and conventional healthcare options while staying informed about potential changes in the state’s cannabis policy.

Is it legal to grow cannabis for personal use in Tennessee?

No, it is not legal to grow cannabis for personal use in Tennessee. As of October 27, 2023, Tennessee has strict laws prohibiting the cultivation of any form of cannabis, including both recreational and medical uses:

  • Recreational Cannabis: Cultivation of any amount of cannabis is illegal for recreational purposes. Possession of any amount can result in penalties ranging from fines to jail time.
  • Medical Cannabis: Currently, Tennessee does not have a legal medical cannabis program, so cultivation for medical use is also not permitted.

Here’s a breakdown of the relevant laws:

  • Tennessee Code Annotated § 39-17-417: This law makes it a crime to cultivate, manufacture, deliver, sell, or possess with intent to deliver any controlled substance, including cannabis.
  • Tennessee Code Annotated § 39-17-419: This law defines cannabis as a Schedule VI controlled substance, placing it in the strictest category of illegal drugs.

Therefore, regardless of your intentions or medical needs, growing cannabis in Tennessee is illegal and carries significant legal risks.

Here are some important points to remember:

  • Penalties for cannabis cultivation can be severe, ranging from fines and misdemeanor charges to felony convictions and years of imprisonment.
  • Even small amounts of cannabis plants can result in legal trouble.
  • Law enforcement actively investigates and prosecutes cannabis cultivation cases.

While public and legislative efforts are ongoing to change Tennessee’s cannabis laws, the current situation prohibits cultivating cannabis for personal use. Always prioritize your safety and legal well-being by complying with existing regulations.

For further information and updates on potential changes in Tennessee’s cannabis policies, you can refer to these resources:

Important Note:

  • The legal landscape surrounding cannabis in Tennessee is complex and restrictive.
  • It is crucial to be aware of the legal risks associated with possessing, consuming, or selling cannabis in Tennessee, even in small amounts.

Explore More U.S. State Cannabis Laws

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PIERCE REDFERN

Sales & Production

I am native to Richmond and attended Collegiate School and The University of Alabama. I am married to my wife, Lauren, and we have two children together, Palmer and Hendley. Graham is my older brother and I have been with the company since the fall of 2022.

I enjoy hunting, fishing and just about anything outdoors. Graham’s strong passion for this industry motivates others to excel, including myself. I love the team we have together now and can’t wait to see what the future holds for Redfern Hemp Co.!

GLORIA RAMIREZ

Kitchen Production

Gloria is from Guatemala. She moved to Virginia in 2023 and began working with the Redfern Team.

Gloria plays a pivotal role in ensuring that our products are precisely packaged using our quality control SOP guidelines.

ROB UJEVIC

Outside Sales

I’m from Reston, VA currently living in Richmond and Engaged with no kids yet… I began working for Redfern after my original venture, Gourmet Hemp Foods, partnered with them. I love Redfern cause they offer freedom and flexibility to grow.

Redfern is family oriented and serves the community and customers with utmost diligence. Graham Redfern is the hardest working leader I’ve ever had the privilege to work for!

WHITNEY MORGAN

Market Manager

I’m from Caroline County, Virginia and I am married to my husband Ryan. I’ve worked with Redfern Hemp Co. a little over two years. Before that I was a nanny and I worked as a pediatric dental assistant.

I handle online sales and a few outside wholesale accounts. Working with Redfern is a dream job I never thought I’d have.

We are a true family. We work like one, and argue like one. As a team we are flexible and have a real love for the plant and what it can do. There is no limit for the plant so there is no limit for us.

For example, my mom suffered from hair loss after Covid. She started to add Redfrn’s Whole Plant Tincture into her shampoo and conditioner and it helped her hair regrow. The plant is magic!

TIFFANY OBLINSKY

HR & Administration

Tiffany is the anchor of our team, ensuring that we stay organized and that the company’s operations are always running smoothly. During her free time, Tiffany enjoys taking her family to Lake Anna while simultaneously keeping Graham in line from her smartphone!

Corey Reed

Social Media Manager

Hi, I’m Corey. Originally from Charlotte, NC, I’ve called Virginia my second home for over 12 years. With a 10-year background in healthcare and nursing, and 5 years in content creation and social media, I’ve developed a diverse skill set. In my free time, I enjoy creating content, writing music, fishing, and being the best father I can be. Working with Graham and the Redfern team has been a dream come true. It has allowed me to pursue my passions for content creation, health and wellness, community morale, and making meaningful connections. At Redfern Hemp Co, I oversee the social media side of the business. You can also catch me at Redfern Market, so feel free to stop by and say hi!

COURTNEY KUSTERER

Production / Sales / Event Manager

Knowledgeable and passionate about the hemp plant, Courtney is an all around asset to our company. Since her early days with Graham in Waynesboro, she has acquired invaluable insights and business knowledge to help the success of our small business. Her ability to tell the Redfern story is unmatched. If you’ve ever seen one of our event setups, you can tell that Courtney had her creative ideas flowing. She has built a strong wholesale portfolio, while strengthening our network of industry connections. Her expertise in directing customers to the right products is undeniable, playing a pivotal role in assisting Graham in building the company from the ground up. In her free time, Courtney enjoys moments on the farm with Graham and their farm family of cat, cows, chickens, ducks, and dogs. She also values family time at Virginia Tech football games and moments on the boat or at the beach.

GRAHAM REDFERN

Owner & Hemp Farmer

Before I became an American hemp farmer and entrepreneur, I first heard of the hemp industry during a period when my construction business thrived, but the housing crash of 2009 changed everything. While visiting Asheville, North Carolina, I encountered a groundbreaking green building – a house made 90% from hemp, from the flooring to the walls, excluding only electrical components and appliances.

Intrigued, I consulted with Andrea Herman, president of the Hemp Industries of America, spending an hour and $150 to understand the challenges of building such houses in the U.S.. When Andrea explained the steep costs preventing widespread use of U.S.-grown hemp, it ignited a passion in me. I questioned, “Why not?” This moment became a catalyst for my deep dive into the hemp industry.

Passage of the Farm Bills

In 2014, the passing of the Farm Bill allowed universities to grow hemp, prompting me to shift from the car industry. Initially unsure of my path, I invested in penny hemp stocks and connected with the Virginia Industrial Hemp Coalition, working with universities such as JMU, UVA, VSU, and Virginia Tech to explore potential markets.

For four years, restricted by regulations to work with universities, I delved into the banking industry. When the 2019 Farm Bill dismantled barriers, allowing American farmers to cultivate cannabis plants with less than 0.3% THC, my dream took a leap. Redfern Hemp Co. was born, marking the legal sale of hemp products in Virginia for the first time in over seventy years. With my girlfriend Courtney, we hustled – attending state fairs, cultivating hemp on our 42-acre Caroline County farm, and navigating the burgeoning industry. Fast-forward to 2023, and despite being one of the few companies remaining, we face challenges.

Unfortunately, Virginia lawmakers have strained our efforts, declaring federally legal cannabinoid-derived hemp products illegal unless sold by a select few medical marijuana operators.

In the face of Virginia’s attempt to monopolize medical marijuana, we persist in expanding cannabis job opportunities for all Virginians.

We champion Virginians’ rights to affordable, high-quality products, battling against restrictive legislation. It’s disheartening to see the government hindering the benefits of this plant, including job creation and increased taxation.

Restoring Virginia’s Hemp Farming Legacy

There was a time when Virginian hemp farmers paid taxes with hemp. Reintroducing low-dosage, safe cannabinoid products in smoke shops, convenience stores, and local markets could restore this tradition on a broader scale than a handful of licensees. We’re committed to reclaiming this birthright, enabling Virginians to pay their taxes with hemp once again.

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