On February 6, the Tennessee Department of Agriculture held a public hearing on the proposed rule. The Tennessee Growers Federation said between 200 and 300 people attended.
Chesney went to the state Capitol to participate in the hearing.
“Even if you eliminate THC, you won't get the full effects and benefits of the plant,” Chesney says. “From a consumer perspective, what's frustrating is that those in power in Tennessee seem to think this is regulating people who get high and try to get high.”
USDA spokeswoman Kim Dodoridge said the agency is reviewing public comments and developing the final rule.
“The record of the Feb. 6 hearing, responses, and final rule will be submitted to the Tennessee Attorney General’s Office,” Dodoridge said. “Government officials will review the final rule for legality and constitutionality, and if approved, the final rule will be submitted to the Secretary of State's Office and become effective 90 days later.”
Doddridge said the law requires the Tennessee Department of Agriculture to have regulations in place by July 1.
