Memphis, Tennessee, December 30, 2025
State Representative Antonio Parkinson has introduced the Freedom to Farm Act, which would allow Tennesseans to grow marijuana at home. The act would permit one adult per household to cultivate 15 marijuana plants for personal use, under strict regulations. Selling marijuana remains illegal, but personal cultivation aims to alleviate reliance on healthcare and taxation concerns. The proposal reflects a growing trend towards reevaluating marijuana laws in Tennessee amidst federal changes.
Memphis, Tennessee: Lawmaker Proposes Freedom to Farm Act for Home Marijuana Cultivation
State Representative Antonio Parkinson has introduced the Freedom to Farm Act, aiming to permit Tennessee residents to cultivate marijuana at home. The proposed legislation would allow one adult per household to grow 15 marijuana plants, divided into five adult, five intermediate, and five budding plants, for personal use. Parkinson emphasizes that this initiative seeks to provide individuals with the means to supply their own marijuana without relying on the healthcare system or government, and to avoid additional taxes associated with other states’ marijuana programs.
Under the proposed act, selling or distributing marijuana would remain illegal; however, possessing marijuana grown personally would be permitted. Strict regulations would be enforced, including the requirement for certified cards for growers and the purchase of seeds exclusively from a state co-op. Violations of these rules would result in criminal prosecution and a permanent ban from participating in the program.
This proposal follows President Donald Trump’s directive to reclassify marijuana from a Schedule I to a Schedule III drug, a process currently underway. Parkinson anticipates potential opposition but notes that the timing may influence legislative support, as his colleagues often align with federal actions.
Currently, Tennessee law prohibits the cultivation of marijuana for any purpose, classifying it as a felony offense. Possession of less than half an ounce is considered a misdemeanor, while possession of more than half an ounce is a felony.
The Freedom to Farm Act is part of Parkinson’s legislative agenda for the upcoming 2026 session, reflecting a growing interest in reevaluating marijuana laws in Tennessee.
Key Features of the Freedom to Farm Act
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Personal Cultivation | Allows one adult per household to grow 15 marijuana plants for personal use. |
| Plant Allocation | Permits five adult, five intermediate, and five budding plants per household. |
| Seed Purchase | Requires seeds to be purchased exclusively from a state co-op. |
| Regulatory Compliance | Mandates certified cards for growers and strict adherence to regulations. |
| Penalties | Imposes criminal prosecution and a permanent ban from the program for violations. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Freedom to Farm Act?
The Freedom to Farm Act is proposed legislation by State Representative Antonio Parkinson that would allow Tennessee residents to cultivate marijuana at home, permitting one adult per household to grow 15 marijuana plants for personal use.
How many marijuana plants can be grown under the proposed act?
The proposed act would allow one adult per household to grow 15 marijuana plants, divided into five adult, five intermediate, and five budding plants, for personal use.
Would selling or distributing marijuana be legal under the Freedom to Farm Act?
No, the proposed act would still make it illegal to sell or distribute marijuana; however, possessing marijuana that individuals have grown themselves would be legal.
What are the penalties for violating the proposed regulations?
Violations of the proposed regulations would result in criminal prosecution and a permanent ban from participating in the program.
What is the current legal status of marijuana cultivation in Tennessee?
Currently, Tennessee law prohibits the cultivation of marijuana for any purpose, classifying it as a felony offense. Possession of less than half an ounce is considered a misdemeanor, while possession of more than half an ounce is a felony.
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