Tennessee Republicans are signaling a new openness to medical marijuana, suggesting a regulated program could be in place within two to three years. Rep. Jeremy Faison (R-Cosby) said a framework is likely “soon,” crediting the federal move to reclassify marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III for easing long-standing objections. House Majority Leader William Lamberth
Tennessee Republicans are signaling a new openness to medical marijuana, suggesting a regulated program could be in place within two to three years. Rep. Jeremy Faison (R-Cosby) said a framework is likely “soon,” crediting the federal move to reclassify marijuana from Schedule I to Schedule III for easing long-standing objections. House Majority Leader William Lamberth (R-Portland) said rescheduling lets doctors decide whether cannabis can safely help patients seeking alternatives to opioids and fentanyl-tainted drugs.
While GOP leaders say the current General Assembly is not yet ready to legalize medical cannabis, lawmakers from both parties have filed related bills, including a Republican-backed study of Tennessee’s readiness and a proposed advisory referendum. A December 2024 Vanderbilt poll found 63% of voters support legal recreational marijuana, adding pressure for change.
