A proposal bringing medical marijuana to Tennessee was brought to the House of Representatives floor Tuesday for consideration. This is the first time a medical marijuana proposal has made it to the floor for a vote.
The proposal was in the form of an amendment by Rep. Sherry Jones (D-Nashville) to HB0582. Under the amendment, people could possess one ounce of marijuana if they had been diagnosed by a Tennessee licensed physician for relief from cancer, glaucoma, multiple sclerosis, HIV, AIDS, hepatitis C, ALS, Crohn’s disease, post-traumatic stress disorder or Alzheimer’s disease.
Rep. Jones said the amendment “was drawn to provide some compassionate relief to tens of thousands of people who are in pain and suffering from debilitating diseases.”
The person would be allowed to lawfully grow up to six cannabis plants at their home to provide the marijuana. The amendment was tabled however, mostly along party lines.
After the amendment was killed, Rep. Jones, who has been fighting for medical marijuana for years, said, “I’m sorry the Republican majority would not take the steps necessary and vote to help men, women and children across Tennessee. It’s the right thing to do; it’s the caring thing to do.”