House panel advances ban on THCA and THCP in hemp-derived products; sponsors cite child-safety concerns

Representative Butler sponsored House Bill 11-48, which the committee approved as amended and sent to finance, moving a ban on THCA and THCP in hemp-derived products toward further consideration.

Butler told the committee the bill ‘‘removes THCA and THCP from the list of authorized hemp-derived cannabinoids’’ after committee amendments corrected drafting language. He framed the proposal as a response to a ‘‘public health crisis’’ involving vapes and edible products that can intoxicate children and students.

Members raised concerns about commercial impacts. Representative Johnson asked whether all hemp contains THCA; Butler replied that hemp can contain trace THCA and that the bill would prevent sale of products containing THCA rather than prohibit growing hemp varieties that have trace amounts. Representative Harris and others pressed on economic effects; Butler said certain salves and low‑trace oils could still be produced and that an amendment on post-decarboxylation testing was intended to give a more accurate measure of a product’s psychoactive potential.

Committee members also discussed timing. Representative Rosanna Powell asked whether vendors and laboratories beyond the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) could perform testing; Butler said TBI would store specimens and that certified third-party labs could perform analyses. After discussion the sponsor said he would accept an amendment to make the effective date July 1, aligning with a senate change, to give businesses time to adapt.

Leader Lambert and other members noted Colorado and other states’ different approaches to cannabinoid products and emphasized a policy choice for the legislature. Opponents who had signaled intent to testify were not present when the committee took the vote.

The clerk recorded 13 ayes, 7 nos and 1 present not voting; House Bill 11-48 advances to finance and ways and means as amended.