On February 7, 2019, Republican lawmakers introduced twin bills to allow medical cannabis in the Volunteer State — SB 486 and HB 637. Sen. Janice Bowling and Rep. Ron Travis’ Tennessee Medical Cannabis Act would provide relief to patients with around 20 medical conditions, including cancer, chronic pain, seizures, spasms, opioid addiction, and PTSD. In early April 2019, facing the possibility of a committee loss, Sen. Steve Dickerson (a supporter) postponed further consideration of medical cannabis bills until 2020. The delay allows for more time to build the necessary support.

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Let your state lawmakers know you want them to listen to the 81% of voters who support allowing patients and doctors to decide whether to use medical cannabis. Gov. Bill Lee said he wants to “explore alternatives before we go there.” But, hope is not lost. Multiple governors have allowed medical marijuana laws to become law despite their initial reluctance. 

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Currently a Medical CBD program is the sole authorized program in Tennessee. Only authorized patients can use CBD extracts or possess CBD products. This year the Leader of the House of Representatives released the results of a survey conducted of his constituents. The results showed a 73% support in allowing the use of medical marijuana. Plans to get a bill in front of voters is scheduled for 2020.

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