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New Tennessee Law Imposes Jail Time, Fines for Selling Hemp-Derived Cannabinoids to Minors

Jun 22, 2025 at 06:58 pm by WGNS


MURFREESBORO, Tenn. – Beginning July 1, anyone convicted of selling hemp-derived cannabinoid products—such as THC-infused gummies—to individuals under 21 will face a mandatory minimum penalty of 48 hours in jail and a $500 fine, under a new state law passed by the Tennessee General Assembly.

The legislation, sponsored by Rep. Dan Howell (R–Cleveland), is a response to rising concerns from educators about the accessibility of these products to students.

“The number of students gaining access to these gummies has skyrocketed,” said Howell during a floor debate. “Our children think these are candy, and they’re far from candy.”

Background and Penalties

The sale of hemp-derived cannabinoid products to individuals under 21 was classified as a Class A misdemeanor in 2023. The new law strengthens enforcement by establishing minimum sentencing requirements for violators.

Importantly, the law targets the person who physically sells the product, rather than the store owner. Employees under 21 are also barred from handling or selling these products in retail settings.

Bipartisan Support Despite Concerns

The legislation passed with bipartisan support, though some Democrats argued the penalties should apply to store owners who fail to train or supervise employees properly.

House Majority Leader William Lamberth (R–Portland) supported the measure, referencing past sting operations targeting alcohol sales to minors.

“For years after that, when they did those stings, there would be virtually no one that didn’t check an ID,” Lamberth said. “This has a deterrent effect.”

Enforcement in Rutherford County

With the law taking effect in just days, local retailers in Rutherford County, including Murfreesboro and Smyrna, are expected to update employee training and tighten ID verification practices. Law enforcement agencies may also adopt sting operations to ensure compliance, similar to those used for alcohol sales.

According to the bill’s fiscal note, no one has yet been convicted under the 2023 version of the law. That could change quickly as the new enforcement provisions take effect.

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