‘Pot for Potholes’ Campaign Launched by Tennessee Lawmakers 

A bill proposed in Tennessee would legalize cannabis for adult use, with most of the revenue directed toward transportation projects, WTVF reports. State Sen. Heidi Campbell and state Rep. Aftyn Behn, both Democrats, launched the “Pot of Potholes” campaign on Friday, and their proposal would establish retail sales and allow adults 21-and-older to possess 60 grams of flower and permit personal cultivation of up to 12 cannabis plants.     

Under the measure, adult-use cannabis sales would carry a 15% excise tax with the funds earmarked for the state highway fund, counties, and administrative costs associated with the projects.   

According to a website supporting the proposal, Tennessee has a $58 billion backlog of highway and bridge projects. 

“Let’s not kid ourselves, Tennesseans are already purchasing cannabis products. They’re just making those purchases across state lines, where our state sees no benefit. It’s time to modernize Tennessee’s marijuana laws. Let’s rebuild our crumbling roads and bridges and invest in transit solutions by taxing legal cannabis.” — Pot4Potholes.com 

The lawmakers introduced a similar version of the bill last year, but the proposal did not advance in either chamber. 

In the Senate, the bill was referred to the Judiciary Committee; the measure was sent to the Criminal Justice Subcommittee, Judiciary Committee, Health Committee, and Government Operations Committee in the House.