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Nashville, TN – Tennessee’s hemp industry is set to undergo significant changes in 2026 following the signing of House Bill 1376 by Governor Bill Lee on May 21, 2025. The new law imposes broad restrictions, banning THCA and synthetic cannabinoids, while also prohibiting direct-to-consumer sales.
The legislation shifts regulatory oversight from the Tennessee Department of Agriculture to the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission (ABC), which will now govern the sale of hemp-derived cannabinoid products (HDCPs). Under the new rules, HDCPs can no longer be sold in convenience and grocery stores and will only be available in establishments that either restrict entry to those 21 and older or are licensed by the ABC. Additionally, wholesalers and manufacturers must adhere to stricter regulatory guidelines.
State lawmakers, including Sen. Richard Briggs (R-Knoxville), argue that the bill is necessary to regulate HDCPs similarly to alcohol for public health and safety reasons. Critics, however, see it as a threat to Tennessee’s hemp industry. Advocacy groups such as the U.S. Hemp Roundtable (USHR) and the Tennessee Growers Coalition contend that the legislation will monopolize the market in favor of the alcohol industry, reducing opportunities for farmers and small businesses while limiting consumer access to wellness products.
A key point of contention is the regulation of THCA, a compound that converts into THC when heated. Some legal experts have debated its classification under federal law, prompting Tennessee lawmakers to seek clarification from the U.S. Department of Justice.
Concerns have also been raised regarding the impact on farmers and small businesses. Lawmakers like Sen. Kerry Roberts (R-Springfield) questioned why the bill does not align with the federal definition of hemp, while Sen. Page Walley (R-Savannah) voiced frustration over changing regulations after previous assurances to industry participants.
With the bill now signed into law, Tennessee’s hemp market must brace for substantial adjustments ahead of 2026, as industry players navigate the evolving regulatory landscape.
“}]] [[{“value”:”Nashville, TN – Tennessee’s hemp industry is set to undergo significant changes in 2026 following the signing of House Bill 1376 by Governor Bill Lee on May 21, 2025. The new law imposes broad restrictions, banning THCA and synthetic cannabinoids, while also prohibiting direct-to-consumer sales.
The legislation shifts regulatory oversight from the Tennessee Department of Agriculture to the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission (ABC), which will now govern the sale of hemp-derived c …”}]] Read More
