Senate Bill 770 amends Tennessee Code Annotated to establish a regulatory framework for hemp-derived cannabinoid products (HDCPs) at the local government level. The bill allows local governments to create HDCP boards that can issue permits to retailers selling these products. Each retailer must obtain a permit for each retail location, with an annual fee of $250. The HDCP boards are empowered to regulate the sale of HDCPs within their jurisdictions, provided their regulations do not conflict with state law. Additionally, local law enforcement agencies are granted the authority to enforce these regulations and conduct inspections of retail premises.

The bill also outlines penalties for retailers operating without the required permits or violating regulations, which may include civil penalties of up to $1,000, revocation of permits for up to one year, and ineligibility for permit renewal. Furthermore, all fees and penalties collected will be deposited into the local government's general fund, specifically earmarked for the enforcement of the new regulations. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 43-27-202