Bill > SB0923

This bill proposes significant changes to Tennessee's marijuana laws by decriminalizing the possession of small amounts of marijuana and marijuana plants. Specifically, it would make it legal for individuals to possess less than one ounce of marijuana or five or fewer marijuana plants, and to casually exchange small amounts (up to 0.1 ounces) without criminal penalties. The bill defines "casually exchange" as spontaneously passing marijuana without monetary transaction. However, municipalities and counties would be authorized to establish civil penalties for possessing or exchanging marijuana in public places, with fines not exceeding $250 (calculated at $25 per 0.1 ounce and $50 per plant). The bill also modifies existing law to clarify that selling or distributing marijuana in amounts less than one ounce remains an offense, and increases the threshold for certain marijuana-related legal references from one-half ounce to one ounce. The changes would take effect on July 1, 2025, representing a significant shift in Tennessee's approach to small-scale marijuana possession by replacing criminal penalties with potential civil penalties and local government discretion.

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https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SB0923&ga=114