House Bill 72 amends various sections of the Tennessee Code Annotated concerning hemp-derived cannabinoids. The bill introduces a new penalty for individuals violating specific provisions related to hemp products, mandating a jail sentence of 48 hours to 11 months and 29 days, along with fines ranging from $500 to $1,500. This addition aims to enhance enforcement against violations in the sale and distribution of hemp-derived products.

Additionally, the bill modifies existing language regarding the sale of hemp-derived cannabinoid products by prohibiting retailers from allowing employees under the age of 21 to access, handle, or sell these products. This change emphasizes the importance of age restrictions in the retail environment for hemp-derived cannabinoids. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 43-27-203(d), 43-27-203, 43-27-204(b), 43-27-204