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The Tennessee Conservative [By Olivia Lupia] –
After President Trump’s reclassification of marijuana, debate has reignited amongst Tennessee lawmakers about potentially revamping the state’s policy on the drug as some Republicans consider supporting medical marijuana while others remain staunchly opposed to the substance in any form.
While it did not legalize marijuana, the Trump Executive Order (EO) reclassified it from a Schedule I to a Schedule III substance, putting it in the same category as Tylenol with codeine.
The President stated his intent was to expand the research field for potential medical applications, though numerous research organizations and medical professionals have rebutted, saying that the rescheduling gives the illusion of regulation while exposing the public to known, unmanaged risks.
Several Tennessee Republican legislators have previously stated they would only consider legalization if the drug were to be reclassified at the federal level, and all former attempts to legalize in the state have failed, but that landscape could shift with the reclassification as Republican opinions seem to be across the spectrum.
House Speaker Cameron Sexton believes the federal shift raises major questions.
“There will have to be conversations about who manufactures it, who tests it, who distributes…which medical illness could it be used for, does this require FDA approval, and a host of other questions,” Sexton said.
House Majority Leader William Lamberth also raised some concerns, but acknowledged legitimate medical uses may be considered in future.
“Tennessee will continue to strictly regulate intoxicating substances to protect public health, safety, especially vulnerable populations,” Lamberth said. “Any change in the federal drug schedule that acknowledges legitimate medical use based on scientific evidence will certainly be taken into consideration as we strive to form an appropriate legal framework for dangerous substances.”
Senator Mark Pody (R-Lebanon-District 17) has signaled a willingness to pursue medical marijuana legalization.
“I think it’s going to help us not only with the health but those that have been incarcerated,” he said.
Meanwhile, Lt. Gov. Randy McNally remains firmly opposed to marijuana, saying he believes it is a dangerous drug and does not offer enough medical benefits to justify its legalization.
Democrats appear to be largely supportive of both the reclassification and efforts to legalize the substance, both medically and recreationally.
Senator London Lamar believes the reclassification is a good change, but that even more support should be given to medical cannabis researchers.
“Our marijuana laws are stuck in the dark ages- overly punitive, out of step with our neighbors and holding our state back. Cannabis reform is about freedom, public health, and fiscal responsibility. We should be supporting medical researchers who want to study cannabis and patients who would choose cannabis treatments over deadly opioids,” she said.
“Our current laws force us to waste tax dollars on incarceration instead of investing in roads, schools and health care, and we’re also missing out on economic growth and new revenue,” Lamar continued. “If Washington can acknowledge reality, Tennessee can, too. It’s time for the General Assembly to take a serious step forward on cannabis reform.”
Democrat Rep. Antonio Parkinson has already filed a proposal on the subject, dubbed the Freedom to Farm Act, which would allow home marijuana cultivation and allow one adult in each household to grow up to 15 marijuana plants on their property after obtaining a certified card.
The legislation would supposedly still make it illegal to sell and distribute the drug but would legalize possession for marijuana individuals have grown themselves, and under his bill seeds will theoretically only be available for purchase at the state co-op.
As bills continue to be filed ahead of the start of the legislative session on January 13, 2026, it is likely several more proposals on the cannabis and marijuana topics will be presented amidst the federal shift.
About the Author: Olivia Lupia is a political refugee from Colorado who now calls Tennessee home. A proud follower of Christ, she views all political happenings through a Biblical lens and aims to utilize her knowledge and experience to educate and equip others. Olivia is an outspoken conservative who has run for local office, managed campaigns, and been highly involved with state & local GOPs, state legislatures, and other grassroots organizations and movements. Olivia can be reached at olivia@tennesseeconservativenews.com.
