Could Tennessee Be On the Path to Legalizing Marijuana?

 Posted on November 12, 2020 in Drug Crimes

In the past decade, the legal restrictions surrounding marijuana have shifted on a state-by-state basis. These variations of the law include the legalization of marijuana for medical and recreational purposes as well as the decriminalization of marijuana for those who have previously faced charges. Depending on where you live, you may have free reign, or you could still face stiff restrictions for drug possession. Tennessee is one of seven states that is still standing as a stronghold against all forms of legalization. One state senator, however, is using her voice to stand up for those who are in need of the benefits of medical marijuana.

State Senator Advocates for the Sick

As Tennessee’s surrounding states begin to loosen their marijuana regulations, many Tennesseans are wondering when their state will follow suit. Republican State Senator Janice Bowling has supported the movement to legalize medical marijuana for years, and she intends on taking action again this winter. According to reports from WREG, Sen. Bowling plans on introducing a new medical marijuana bill when lawmakers reconvene at the start of the new year. 

In 2019, Sen. Bowling used physicians to support her legalization argument, with one doctor stating that opioid usage declines when patients are able to combine the medication with medical cannabis. Because medical marijuana has no lethal dose, it is much safer than the alternative. Her bill will be introduced to the Senate Committee in January 2021, with the possibility of legalizing medical marijuana throughout Tennessee.

Benefits of Medical Cannabis

One of the primary reasons why medical marijuana remains illegal in a few states across the country is the stigma that surrounds the substance. While marijuana in large doses can cause the “high” that is not well regarded, medical marijuana is prescribed by physicians in an acceptable dosage. According to Harvard Medical School, there are a number of benefits that this medical treatment can offer patients, the most common being pain control. The substance is not strong enough to prevent severe pain, such as a broken limb, but for those who live with chronic pain, medical cannabis is a much safer alternative than opiates. 

Those who suffer from multiple sclerosis and general nerve pain can greatly benefit from the substance. Medical marijuana can also help manage nausea and weight loss, and medical researchers are in the process of studying its use for veterans and others who suffer from PTSD. Many states have already recognized these benefits and legalized the treatment. Those living in Tennessee, however, can still face criminal penalties if found using marijuana for any purposes, including medical treatment.

Contact a Knoxville, TN Drug Crimes Defense Attorney

Unfortunately, the state of Tennessee has not legally recognized the benefits of medical marijuana and made it readily available for those suffering from chronic illness or other qualifying medical conditions. While you may be able to obtain marijuana from a neighboring state, if you are found with the substance in Tennessee, you will face drug charges, despite the substance being used for medical purposes. Jeffrey Coller, Knoxville Criminal Defense Attorney, works tirelessly to protect those who are facing criminal charges of any kind, especially possession of medical marijuana. With bills such as Sen. Bowling’s being presented to the State Senate, Attorney Coller’s defense strategies are further strengthened by lawmakers’ advocacy for the medical treatment. If you are facing drug charges for the possession or use of medical marijuana, contact our skilled Knox County criminal defense lawyer today at 865-281-1000 to schedule a free consultation.

Sources:

https://wreg.com/news/tennessee-lawmaker-plans-to-introduce-medical-marijuana-bill/

https://www.wkrn.com/news/tennessee-news/tennessee-state-senator-plans-to-push-for-legalizing-medical-cannabis-again/

https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/medical-marijuana-2018011513085