House Bill 703, known as the “Pot for Potholes Act,” has gained additional support in the Tennessee General Assembly, with State Representatives Gloria Johnson (D) and John Clemmons (D) signing on as cosponsors.
(Photo credit: David Paul Morris/Bloomberg).
Initially introduced earlier this month by State Representative Aftyn Behn (D), the bill would establish a regulated marijuana market in Tennessee, with tax revenue directed toward infrastructure improvements, particularly road maintenance and repairs.
The measure, which has been assigned to the Criminal Justice Subcommittee, would create a regulatory framework for the cultivation, processing, and retail sale of marijuana. The Tennessee Department of Agriculture would oversee licensing, product testing, and labeling standards. Under the proposal, individuals would be allowed to cultivate up to 12 plants for personal use without a license.
In the Senate, a companion bill, SB 921, was recently filed by State Senator Heidi Campbell (D). While the House version remains the primary focus, the introduction of Senate Bill 921 signals growing legislative interest in marijuana reform.
If enacted, Tennessee would join the 24 states that have legalized recreational marijuana, with tax revenues dedicated to infrastructure projects. The proposal remains in its early stages as lawmakers continue to debate its potential impact.
