SB0486 - Tennessee Medical Cannabis Act
Sponsor: Bowling
This bill aims to establish the "Tennessee Medical Cannabis Act" in order to provide access to medical cannabis for patients with qualifying medical conditions. The act includes provisions for licensing and regulating the cultivation, production, distribution, and sale of medical cannabis. It also aims to increase public health options, alleviate suffering, promote agricultural business, incentivize research on THC benefits, and track medical cannabis from cultivation to point of sale.
The bill outlines definitions for terms such as "cannabis," "caregiver," "certification," "dispensary," and "qualified patient," among others. It also details the process for obtaining a medical cannabis card, requirements for caregivers, and conditions that qualify for medical cannabis use.
The bill establishes a Medical Cannabis Commission, outlines the responsibilities and qualifications of its members, and sets forth rules for licensing and regulation of medical cannabis providers. It addresses taxation on medical cannabis sales and establishes a "medical cannabis fund" to manage revenue generated from the industry.
Additionally, the bill includes provisions related to testing of medical cannabis products, gives authority to regulate the industry statewide, and addresses workplace policies regarding the use of medical cannabis.
If any part of the act is found to be invalid, the remaining provisions are still considered valid. The act will take effect upon becoming law.