Local lawmakers hash out medical marijuana bill

JACKSON, Tenn. — State lawmakers introduced a bill that would make medical marijuana legal in Tennessee.

“I have not committed one way or the other on the bill,” Rep. Jimmy Eldridge, R-Jackson, said.

Eldridge said he needs more information before making a decision. “I have not decided one way or the other and I don’t decide on a bill that major until I know the whole debate,” he said.

Lawmakers said the bill would only make it legal in oil-based products like pills and lotions, no flower or raw marijuana. “If it stays in the form of medical marijuana I’ll be okay with that,” Rep. Johnny Shaw, D-Bolivar, said. “It if doesn’t I could have some problems.”

Lawmakers said patients would have to have certain medical conditions, like cancer, Alzheimer’s Disease, or post-traumatic stress disorder to use it.

“I know people suffer with many kinds of disease and issues, so I’m never going to be against trying to help those people find relief,” Shaw said.

The legislation would not legalize recreational marijuana. “Trying to pass a bill that deals with recreational marijuana use in the state of Tennessee, boy that’s a long way off right there,” Eldridge said.

Shaw said he plans to host several town halls to get feedback on the marijuana issue.

Lawmakers said the proposal would create an independent Tennessee Medical Cannabis Commission that would provide oversight and accountability. Doctors who wanted to participate would need to be licensed by the commission.

You can read a Q&A about the bill here and a draft of the bill here.