As the marijuana debate continues to rage across the United States, you may have started to notice a pattern developing in certain areas of the country. Overall, the entire Pacific Coast has completely legalized recreational marijuana, with the exception of Hawaii, which has only allowed medical cannabis at this time. Likewise, the East Coast has also boasted continuous acceptance of the little green plant, with New England states like Maine, Massachusetts, and Vermont fully accepting recreational weed. However, one area that seems to be taking its time with legalization is the South. In particular, Florida and Louisiana have allowed medical-grade cannabis, but additional states are still dragging their proverbial feet. Nevertheless, some state governments have still made efforts to approve the plant, and one notable state is Tennessee. Let’s take a closer look at some facts about cannabis laws in the Volunteer State.
Historical Gem
Overall, Tennessee has played a major role in American history and still serves as a seat of cultural and social gatherings to this day. Interestingly, the state’s roots are connected to the Watauga Association, a 1772 frontier pact that is regarded as the first establishment of a constitutional government (west of the Appalachians). Likewise, Tennessee provided more Confederate soldiers than any other southern state during the Civil War and, ironically, was the first state to rejoin the Union. Nature-lovers will marvel at the gorgeous Great Smoky Mountains National Park, while thrill-seekers recognize Tennessee as a base for a portion of the Appalachian Trail. Meanwhile, country music fans adore Tennessee for playing host to the Country Music Awards (Nashville), the Country Music Hall of Fame, and Dollywood.
Best Effort
While Tennessee attempted to legalize medical marijuana in 2016, lawmakers failed to pass the amendment but did ultimately approve an alleviation of criminal charges for pot possession. On July 1, 2016, House Bill 1478 officially lowered penalties for the possession of 1/2 ounce to 1 ounce of weed to charges of a misdemeanor, while third-time offenders will not be charged with a felony. Regardless, if a person is carrying a maximum of 1 gram of the plant, that individual could face 1 year of imprisonment and a fine ranging from $250 to $2,500.
Always remember that marijuana does not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse or addiction troubles today.
