Cannabis Business Legal Compliance in Tennessee

Navigating Tennessee's Cannabis Laws: Why Your Business Needs a Cannabis Attorney

The cannabis industry is expanding nationwide, but Tennessee's strict laws make it a challenging state for cannabis businesses. With medical marijuana, recreational use, and decriminalization entirely off the table—except for limited low-THC CBD oil for specific medical conditions—understanding the state's complex regulations is essential. Whether you're starting or managing a cannabis-related venture, partnering with a knowledgeable cannabis attorney is crucial to navigate the legal landscape, ensure compliance, and protect your business from potential pitfalls.

Breaking Down Tennessee’s Cannabis Laws

Let’s start with a quick overview of where Tennessee stands when it comes to cannabis:

• Recreational Marijuana: Completely illegal.
• Medical Marijuana: Illegal, except for very limited use of low-THC CBD oil for qualifying medical conditions.
• Decriminalization: Not even close. Possessing any amount of marijuana is against the law and comes with stiff penalties.

What Are the Penalties for Cannabis in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, recreational cannabis remains illegal, while medical use is allowed under strict conditions. Penalties for cannabis-related offenses are severe:

Possession

• Up to 2 ounces: Class 1 misdemeanor, up to 1 year in jail and $2,000 fine.
• 2 ounces or more: Felonies with increasing penalties up to 10 years imprisonment and $20,000 fine for larger amounts.

Sale or Distribution

• Any amount: Felonies ranging from 2 years imprisonment for less than 0.5 ounces to 15 years for over 1 pound.

Hashish and Concentrates

• Possession: Felony, up to 5 years imprisonment and $10,000 fine.