Tennessee Senate Bill SB2571

Tennessee 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/2/26

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 39, Chapter 17, Part 4, relative to cannabis.

Impact

If enacted, SB2571 would introduce new penalties for possession offenses based on the quantity of cannabis possessed. The bill classifies a violation under this new provision as a Class A misdemeanor, with penalties including fines and community service depending on the amount possessed. Notably, for small quantities (one ounce or less), the penalties focus on fines and community service, prohibiting confinement—an effort to mitigate the burdens of criminal penalties for medical users. For larger quantities, the penalties become progressively more severe, including higher fines and potential confinement for repeat offenses.

Summary

Senate Bill 2571 seeks to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated concerning cannabis possession in light of federal changes recognizing cannabis under Schedule III. The bill stipulates that individuals may only possess cannabis if they have obtained it pursuant to a medical diagnosis from a licensed physician for a qualifying condition. This reclassification marks a significant shift in state law, aligning state regulations more closely with recent federal directives pertaining to cannabis use for medical purposes.

Contention

Discussion around SB2571 suggests mixed sentiments regarding its implementation and the implications for public health and law enforcement. Proponents argue that regulated access to cannabis for medical purposes is essential for patients and aligns with evolving societal attitudes toward cannabis. In contrast, critics may express concerns about the enforcement of possession limits and whether the bill adequately safeguards against recreational use under the guise of medical necessity. There may also be apprehensions about potential inequities in access to medical cannabis treatment, particularly for marginalized communities.