Bill > HB0981

This bill proposes significant changes to Tennessee's marijuana possession laws, effectively decriminalizing the possession of small amounts of marijuana and marijuana plants. Specifically, the bill would make it no longer an offense for an individual to possess less than one ounce of marijuana or five or fewer marijuana plants, and would allow for the casual exchange of small amounts (up to 0.1 ounces) without financial transaction. However, the bill gives municipalities and counties the authority to establish civil penalties for marijuana possession in public spaces, with fines up to $250 calculated at $25 per 0.1 ounces and $50 per plant. The bill clarifies that "marijuana" in this context refers only to the plant form, not derivatives or concentrates, and defines "casual exchange" as the spontaneous sharing of a small amount without monetary compensation. While possession would be decriminalized, selling or distributing marijuana would remain an offense. The bill also adjusts related sections of Tennessee law to accommodate these changes, such as modifying weight thresholds for certain marijuana-related offenses. The new provisions would take effect on July 1, 2025.

Justice

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=HB0981&ga=114