Is HHC Legal in Tennessee? (2025 Update)

As of 2025, HHC is technically legal in Tennessee under existing hemp-derived cannabinoid regulations. The state currently regulates hemp products (including cannabinoids like HHC, Delta-8, and Delta-10) under its hemp statute so long as they contain ≤ 0.3% Delta-9 THC by dry weight. 

However, Tennessee has passed sweeping reforms—such as House Bill 1376 and Public Chapter 526—overhauling hemp cannabinoid regulation, with many provisions set to go into effect on January 1, 2026. These changes will significantly tighten restrictions and enforcement affecting HHC products. 

Current Legal Framework for HHC (2025)

Tennessee’s hemp law currently:

• Defines hemp as Cannabis sativa with ≤ 0.3% Delta-9 THC. 
• Allows hemp-derived cannabinoids—including HHC—so long as they meet the federal hemp definition. 
• Requires licensing for growers, processors, and retailers of hemp-derived cannabinoid products (HDCs). 

This means HHC products are legal to buy, sell, and possess in Tennessee in 2025 under current hemp rules.

Major Regulatory Changes Coming in 2026

Tennessee’s law, passed in 2025 (e.g., House Bill 1376/Public Chapter 526), makes key shifts effective January 1, 2026:

🔹 New regulatory authority

Control of hemp-derived cannabinoid products (HDCPs) shifts from the Department of Agriculture to the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) for stricter oversight. 

🔹 Bans on synthetic/intoxicating cannabinoids

The law bars products containing certain cannabinoids or derivatives—including THCA above trace levels and other synthetic/intoxicating compounds. This could encompass analogs like HHC, depending on enforcement and regulatory rules finalized by the TABC. 

🔹 Retail restrictions

Proposals include banning online sales and shipping, and requiring in-person sales at licensed retail locations. 

These changes mean that by 2026, the legal status of HHC in practice is likely to become more restricted or prohibited once new rules are implemented. 

Where HHC Is Currently Sold in Tennessee (2025)

Under current interim rules:

• Hemp retailers and licensed shops can sell HHC products (pending licensing).
• Products must stay within hemp THC limits (≤ 0.3% Delta-9). 

However, starting in 2026, these sales channels may change under TABC governance.

Enforcement & Penalties (2025)

New penalties effective July 1, 2025, include:

• Class A misdemeanor for selling hemp-derived cannabinoids (like Delta-8 or related products) to individuals under 21.

While HHC itself isn’t explicitly criminalized yet, regulatory changes increasing enforcement and oversight create uncertainty for both consumers and businesses.

FAQs

Is HHC legal in Tennessee right now (2025)?

Yes—HHC is currently permitted as a hemp-derived cannabinoid under existing hemp law. 

What happens in 2026?

New regulations under TABC authority will restrict or redefine hemp cannabinoid sales, potentially limiting HHC availability. 

Can hemp retailers sell HHC in Tennessee?

Yes, in 2025 with licensing, this may change in 2026 under new rules. 

Does Tennessee allow online sales of HHC?

Currently, yes; the 2026 rules may ban direct-to-consumer shipping.

Are there age restrictions?

Selling hemp-derived cannabinoids to individuals under 21 is now a Class A misdemeanor.

What Tennesseans Should Know in 2025

• HHC and other hemp cannabinoids are legal under current hemp law but subject to licensing. 
• Regulatory changes taking effect in 2026 could significantly restrict HHC availability. 
• Selling to minors carries serious penalties now. 

Stay updated as the TABC finalizes rules that will govern hemp-derived cannabinoid products beginning Jan. 1, 2026.

Conclusion

As of 2025, HHC is legal in Tennessee under hemp law if produced and sold within licensing and Delta-9 THC limits. However, sweeping legislative changes set to take effect in 2026 signal a significant shift toward stricter oversight and possible restrictions on intoxicating hemp cannabinoids.

Bottom line:
HHC remains legal in Tennessee in 2025, but consumers and retailers should prepare for major regulatory changes that may limit or prohibit HHC by 2026.