State representatives talk ‘Pot for Potholes’ bill, how it would work

February 6, 2025

Nyana Whitelaw,

JACKSON, Tenn. — Sponsors of a new bill being proposed in the state legislature say it’s a unique way to solve the pothole problem in Tennessee.

Democratic State Representative for Disrict 51 Aftyn Behn is proposing a bill called ‘Pot for Potholes.’

It pushes for the legalization of marijuana by allowing those expected tax revenues from the sale of it to pay for pothole damage across Tennessee.

SEE ALSO: Pot for Potholes: See the full bill that’s proposed in Tennessee

“There was a new report released from our TACIR, which is an intergovernmental commission saying that we have billions of backlog of infrastructure projects that need to be funded, and instead of throwing up the couch cushions, I thought well why don’t we legalize the sale of recreational marijuana and be forward thinking and use that money to then fill potholes,” said Behn.

Tennessee is currently behind almost $40 billion in transportation infrastructure needs. We spoke with Democratic State Representative for District 90 Gloria Johnson, who co-sponsors the bill, says it will be a huge win for farmers, patients and Tennessee drivers.

“So that’s a huge need that we have in this state, you know, we’ve gotta make up that almost $40 billion in infrastructure needs for transportation. Why not do it by creating a policy that Tennesseans want, that also helps us pay for the roads and the bridges, and the things and projects that we need in this state?” said Johnson.

If approved, 95% of marijuana tax revenues raised will go towards state and local transportation programs.

“I think what’s beautiful about the Pot for Potholes is that it helps the Tennessee taxpayer understand where their money’s going, and I think that adds a level of transparency that’s rarely seen in state government,” said Behn.

Here in Madison County, the Jackson Street Department has also recently updated their district-based pothole repair schedule. To see the repair schedule, click here.

For more Tennessee news, click here.