NASHVILLE, Tenn — Tennessee is preparing for a major shakeup in its hemp and cannabinoid product market as Governor Bill Lee signed House Bill 1376 into law earlier this year. This sweeping legislation, which takes effect January 1, 2026, imposes strict regulations on hemp-derived cannabinoid products, including a ban on THCa products and other synthetic cannabinoids. The law also transfers regulatory oversight from the Department of Agriculture to the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission, signaling a new era of tighter controls.
This move has sent waves through Nashville’s vibrant wellness community, which relies heavily on hemp-based products for pain relief, recovery, and general health.
The hemp community has expressed mixed reactions to the new legislation. Some industry stakeholders view the changes as necessary for consumer safety and product consistency, while others argue that the bans could stifle innovation and harm local businesses.
The key provision of HB 1376 bans the manufacture, sale, and possession of hemp or hemp-derived products containing tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCa) above 0.10% on a dry weight basis. It also prohibits products with synthetic cannabinoids, like Delta-8 and Delta-10 THC, marking a sharp departure from previous years of looser regulations.
The law further prohibits direct-to-consumer sales of hemp-derived cannabinoid products, including online orders and deliveries. Instead, all manufacturing, distribution, and retail sales must be licensed and overseen by the ABC, a regulatory shift aimed at increasing consumer safety and oversight.
The Tennessee Growers Coalition, a prominent hemp advocacy group, has expressed significant concern about the new law’s impact on the state’s hemp industry. In January 2025, the coalition successfully obtained a temporary injunction delaying enforcement of the ban but faces an uphill battle as the January deadline approaches.
Coalition president Sarah Richardson said:
“This legislation threatens the livelihood of many farmers and small businesses in Tennessee. THCa products are popular among consumers for their therapeutic benefits, and banning them could drive people to unregulated markets.”
Perfect Plant Hemp Co., a Nashville-based dispensary known for its wide array of hemp products, is among those affected by the new legislation. Owner Jackson Campbell expressed concern over the potential impact on their business:
“The THCa ban will significantly affect our product offerings. We’ve built our reputation on providing high-quality hemp products, and this legislation challenges that foundation.”
Similarly, The Holistic Connection, another local dispensary, has been vocal about the changes. Owner Sarah Williams stated:
“This legislation feels like a step backward for consumer choice and access to natural wellness options. We’re committed to educating our customers about these changes and exploring compliant alternatives.”
With HB 1376 taking effect in just six months, consumers should be aware:
THCa and synthetic cannabinoid products will no longer be legally available in Tennessee.
Access to hemp products will be limited to licensed dispensaries and retailers regulated by the ABC.
Online and delivery sales of hemp-derived cannabinoids will be banned, requiring in-person purchases.
Consumers should stay alert to avoid purchasing illegal products that could pose health risks.
The transfer of regulatory authority to the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission represents a significant change, as the ABC has broad experience regulating controlled substances but has not historically overseen hemp products.
ABC commissioner Mark Cooper emphasized:
“Our goal is to protect Tennesseans by ensuring all hemp products on the market meet stringent safety standards. We’ll be working closely with businesses to facilitate a smooth transition into this new regulatory framework.”
Tennessee’s 2026 hemp overhaul reflects a growing national trend toward stricter regulation of cannabinoid products amid safety concerns. While supporters argue these laws protect consumers from untested and potentially unsafe substances, critics worry about the economic impact on farmers and retailers.
For Nashville’s wellness community, the next six months will be a crucial period to educate consumers, adjust inventory, and comply with the new legal landscape.
What do you think about this new law? Email us at editorials@nashvillefitmagazine.com
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