Each year, the Tennessee Legislature passes new laws that take effect in January of the following year. Several important changes coming in 2026 could affect East Tennessee residents and may require legal representation.
THC and Hemp-Derived Cannabinoid Products (HB 1376)
One of the most significant changes involves new regulations for hemp-derived cannabinoid products beginning in 2026. These changes will effectively ban the sale of products containing intoxicating levels of THCA and other cannabinoids.
Starting in the new year, the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission will take over regulation of the industry from the Department of Agriculture. Under this transfer of authority, state law will prohibit the sale of most hemp products, including those with total or theoretical THC content exceeding 0.3% by weight. As a result, the state has effectively outlawed all THCA products. (Learn about the difference between THC and TCHA here.)
In addition, Tennessee law HB 1376 limits the sale of remaining hemp products in several ways. Sales will be restricted to in-person purchases by individuals age 21 and older. These products may only be sold in restricted-access locations, such as specialized retail stores, liquor stores, and hemp shops.
Changing Parental Control Over Minors Online
Tennessee is implementing two new laws that expand parents’ control over their minor children’s online activities, including social media use and access to adult content. These regulations include the Protecting Children from Social Media Act (HB 1891), which is intended to give parents greater oversight of their children’s access to social media. The law requires parental consent for the creation of new social media accounts by anyone under the age of 18.
Savanna’s Law: Registry for Repeat Domestic Violence Offenders
Savanna’s Law (HB 1200/SB 0324) establishes a new statewide registry for persistent domestic violence offenders. Anyone convicted of domestic violence who has a prior conviction on record will be required to register. The registry will be maintained by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation.
New Disclosure Rules for Landlords
Tennessee law HB 1814, effective in 2026, requires greater transparency for prospective tenants. Landlords must provide information about property management agencies to individuals seeking to rent a property, including the agency’s name and address. Renters also have the right to receive, in writing, the names and addresses of all property owners.
The law further requires landlords to either provide a maintenance contact name and phone number or establish an online portal for tenant communication.