THCA Hemp Product Ban Takes Full Effect July 1

According to media reports, Tennessee’s ban on most THCA hemp products is scheduled to take full effect July 1 as part of the state’s broader overhaul of hemp regulations.

The changes stem from legislation passed last year that placed oversight of Tennessee’s hemp industry under the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission. Supporters of the law said additional regulation was needed for a rapidly growing industry that previously operated with limited oversight.

The law prohibits hemp products containing more than 0.3 percent THCA, effectively banning many smokable hemp flower products sold by hemp and smoke shops across the state. While THCA itself is not intoxicating, lawmakers note that it converts to THC when heated or smoked.

In addition to the THCA restrictions, the state has implemented new hemp regulations that include licensing requirements, product testing standards, packaging requirements, and dosage regulations.

Some hemp retailers have expressed support for testing and licensing requirements but argue the THCA ban could have a significant financial impact on their businesses because smokable hemp products represent a major portion of sales.

Businesses that fail to comply with Tennessee’s hemp regulations could face penalties, including criminal charges for operating without a license and the possible loss of their license after repeated violations.