Today, State Representative Aftyn Behn (D) introduced House Bill 703, known as the “Pot for Potholes Act,” in the Tennessee General Assembly.
This legislation proposes the establishment of a regulatory framework for the cultivation, processing, and retail sale of marijuana and marijuana products within the state, to be overseen by the Tennessee Department of Agriculture.
The bill outlines comprehensive guidelines for the marijuana industry, including licensing requirements for growers, processors, and retailers, as well as standards for product testing, labeling, and advertising. A notable aspect of HB 703 is its fiscal strategy: it designates tax revenues generated from marijuana sales specifically for infrastructure improvements, with a primary focus on repairing and maintaining Tennessee’s roadways.
Rep. Behn, a community organizer and licensed social worker, has been an advocate for progressive policies aimed at enhancing the well-being of Tennesseans. Her introduction of the “Pot for Potholes Act” reflects a dual objective: addressing the ongoing challenges of road maintenance and exploring new revenue streams through the legalization and regulation of marijuana.
The proposal arrives amid a broader national conversation about marijuana legalization and its potential economic benefits. If enacted, Tennessee would join 24 other states that have legalized recreational marijuana, with all but one allowing licensed sales.
For those interested in reviewing the full text of the bill, click here.
