Is Delta 9 Legal in Tennessee? (Updated for 2024)

**Disclaimer: The information in this article regarding cannabinoids is drawn from comprehensive research and we have made every effort to share the most accurate information available at the time of writing. Remember that legal status is handled differently by jurisdiction and these substances can change status over time. The reader is advised to check the status of cannabinoids before acting and we do not accept liability for this information. This content is for educational purposes only.

We’ve arrived in the land of southern hospitality, country music, whiskey-making, and Memphis barbecue. Tennessee is full of surprises, and a topic that’s been getting a lot of attention is the legal status of cannabis in the Volunteer State.

Cannabis is more than just weed; nowadays, you have a whole bunch of cannabinoids making the rounds. Tennesseans are wondering (rightfully so) whether or not they can partake in the craze surrounding Delta 9, and we’re here to give them and you the answers. Buckle up, and let’s give it a go.

Key Takeaways

• The 2018 Farm Bill legalized hemp-derived cannabinoids containing less than 0.3% THC on a federal level, including Delta 9 THC.
• Some states have reinforced laws that illegalize hemp-derived cannabinoids.
• Hemp-derived Delta 9 THC containing less than 0.3% THC is legal in Tennessee.
• Recreational marijuana is illegal in Tennessee, while medical marijuana is restricted.

Delta 9 and Federal Laws

A few years ago, the 2018 Farm Bill changed the cannabis game forever by legalizing hemp-derived cannabis products containing less than 0.3% Delta 9 THC on a federal level. However, marijuana (not hemp) still remains federally illegal and is considered a Schedule l drug. Hemp-derived cannabinoid products can be found across the country, but some states have adopted laws that make them unlawful.

Tennessee’s Delta 9 Laws

The legality of Delta 9 THC in Tennessee is a bit tricky. Currently, Delta 9 is not recreationally legal in the Volunteer State - unless it contains less than 0.3% THC. Back in 2019, Tennessee adopted a law that follows the 2018 Farm Bill, so any hemp-derived Delta 9 THC is a-okay and available.

When it comes to access to medical cannabis in Tennessee, it is legal but very limited. It’s pretty difficult to get a medical marijuana card and it’s only given to people with specific conditions, putting Tennessee in a pretty complicated legal area for cannabis use.

Even with a medical license, most users can only use marijuana oil that doesn’t contain any more than 0.9% THC. Tennessee is a restrictive state when it comes to cannabis, but there are signs that this might change. We can’t say for sure, but fingers crossed.

Simply put, Tennessee State laws on Delta-9 THC and other hemp cannabinoids align with the 2018 Farm Bill.

Below is an excerpt from the Tennessee State Bill which legalized such hemp products at a statewide level.

Section 1. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 39-17-402(16XC), is amended by deleting the subdivision and substituting the following:

(C) "Marijuana" also does not include hemp, as defined in 43-27-101.

Section 3. Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 39-17-415, is amended by deleting subsection (c) and substituting the following:

(c) This section does not categorize hemp, as defined in $ 43-27-101, as a controlled substance.

Section 12. Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 43, is amended by adding the following as a new chapter:

43-27-101.

(3) "Hemp" means the plant cannabis sativa L. and any part of that plant, including the seeds thereof and all derivatives, extracts, cannabinoids, isomers, acids, salts, and salts of isomers, whether growing or not, with a delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) concentration of not more than three-tenths of one percent (0.3%) on a dry weight basis; and

(4) "THC" means delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol.

Is Delta 9 a Controlled Substance in Tennessee?

Delta 9 THC is considered a controlled substance in Tennessee under both state and federal law. On a federal level, it’s considered a Schedule l drug, and on a state level, a Schedule Vl drug. This disparity may show that the future of cannabis in Tennessee is hopeful - Schedule Vl is considered to have a lower potential for abuse and dependence.

It’s important to know that although hemp-derived Delta 9 THC products containing less than 0.3% are legal to possess and consume responsibly, the possession and distribution of marijuana and non-hemp-derived Delta 9 THC in Tennessee without a medical license can result in criminal charges and penalties.

Delta 9 Possession Limits in Tennessee

The possession of Delta 9 THC is mostly illegal in Tennessee, but it really depends on the context of the situation as to how much you’re able to possess. Recreational use is totally illegal - don’t even think about it. Unless it’s hemp-derived and contains less than 0.3% THC. Complicated, right? Of course, medical license carriers are exempt from this.

Final Thoughts: Is Delta 9 Legal in Tennessee?

Delta 9 THC is legal in Tennessee as long as it’s hemp-derived and contains less than 0.3% THC. Recreational possession is strictly banned, and medicinal use is restricted.

Where to Buy Delta 9 Online

Since hemp-derived Delta 9 products are legal in Tennessee, take a look at what our team at Botany Farms has to offer. Our commitment to sustainability and quality makes for some of the best hemp-derived cannabinoid products out there - at least that’s what our regulars say, and we know you will too.

You can get our Delta 9 THC Blue Raspberry Gummies delivered right to your Tennessean doorstep and enjoy 10mg of Delta 9 and another 14mg of CBD to relax your headspace and have you feeling at ease with life. If blue flavors aren’t your thing, check out the Delta 9 THC Strawberry Gummies for a summer-packed punch of flavor and all the benefits of THC and CBD.

If you can’t make up your mind flavor-wise, the Delta 9 THC Mixed Flavors Gummies are the way to go. All of our gummies offer the same amount of cannabinoids and will have you sitting back relaxing, and enjoying a wave of relief over your body that helps provide the ultimate bliss. Plus, it’s guilt-free: totally legal in Tennessee!

Delta-9 THC in Tennessee: Frequently Asked Questions

Before we call it a day, let's quickly answer some of your most frequently asked questions about Tennessee and Delta-9 THC.

When did Delta 9 become legal in Tennessee?

Delta-9 became legal in 2019.

Is Delta 9 stronger than Delta 8?

Yes, Delta-9 THC is roughly twice as strong as Delta-8 THC.

Is Delta 10 stronger than Delta 9?

Delta-9 THC is also stronger than Delta-10 THC. Delta-10 THC may only be around 20% to 40% as potent as Delta-9 THC.

Sources used for this article:

https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/chemistry/delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol
https://www.congress.gov/bill/115th-congress/house-bill/2

This article was last updated in March 2024 and the information provided in relation to US federal and state cannabis laws is accurate as of the date provided. Due to the rapidly changing cannabis bill across the state and federal levels in the US, the information herein may become outdated at any time. Additionally, and for the avoidance of doubt, this article is NOT intended to be legal advice and Botany Farms as provided or intended to provide any legal advice, nor is any individual or entity associated with Botany Farms providing legal advice. Please consult official state government websites for current information regarding cannabis laws for your state.