Is Marijuana Legal in Tennessee in 2025?
In 2025, marijuana remains illegal in Tennessee. Both recreational and medical marijuana are strictly prohibited under state law. Unlike many other states, Tennessee has not shifted its stance. Keep reading to find out penalties and loopholes to access THC for either medical or recreational use in Tennessee.
If you are interested in learning about medical marijuana in Tennessee take this FREE Medical Cannabis Class.
If you are interested in learning about medical marijuana in Tennessee take this FREE Medical Cannabis Class.
Tennessee's Current Cannabis Laws
Possessing, selling, or cultivating marijuana in Tennessee carries harsh penalties:
- Possession: Even small amounts of cannabis can result in hefty fines and potential jail time. Tennessee Code Annotated - Section 39-17-418.
- Sale and Distribution: Selling cannabis is classified as a felony, leading to severe legal consequences, including long prison sentences.
- Cultivation: Growing marijuana plants in any quantity is illegal and punishable by law.
No Local Decriminalization Allowed
Tennessee state law prevents local governments from passing ordinances to decriminalize marijuana. This means cities and towns cannot relax cannabis-related penalties, even if public opinion shifts locally.
Is Medical Marijuana Legal in Tennessee?
While medical marijuana remains illegal, Tennessee allows individuals with certain debilitating medical conditions to use low-THC oil. This oil:
- Contains no more than 0.9% THC.
- Is typically used for conditions such as epilepsy and severe neurological disorders.
THC Delta-8 and Delta-10 Loopholes in Tennessee
Despite the strict laws surrounding marijuana, Delta-8 and Delta-10 THC remain legal due to a loophole created by the 2018 Farm Bill. These compounds are derived from hemp and contain less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC, which keeps them within legal limits under federal law. These THC products can be found for sale all over Tennessee, and many people use them for both recreational and medical marijuana purposes.
While these products are technically legal, the gray area has caused concerns with product safety, testing, and overall legality.
- Delta-8 THC: Known for its mild psychoactive effects similar to Delta-9 THC, it’s legally available at various retail outlets across Tennessee.
- Delta-10 THC: A newer cannabinoid with slightly more energizing effects, also legal due to the same loophole.
While these products are technically legal, the gray area has caused concerns with product safety, testing, and overall legality.
Future Outlook for Legalization
Recent legislative efforts signal growing pressure for reform. In February 2025, Tennessee lawmakers introduced two significant bills aimed at legalizing cannabis: Senate Bill 0809 (SB0809) and House Bill 0836 (HB0836). Collectively known as the "Tennessee Cannabis Act," these bills propose a comprehensive framework for the regulation of cannabis within the state. Follow the progress of SB0809 here.
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