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…