More Than 1,300 Businesses Earn New TABC Hemp License

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) announced today that more than 1,300 businesses have successfully qualified for Tennessee's newly created Hemp-Derived Cannabinoid Product (HDCP) license, marking a major milestone in the state's transition to a new regulatory framework that protects consumers, supports responsible businesses, and promotes public safety.

Following the enactment of Public Chapter 526 (2025), primary licensing and regulatory authority for HDCP transferred to the TABC, representing one of the largest expansions of the agency's responsibilities in its history. The law required TABC to begin accepting applications on January 1, 2026.

To prepare for the transition, the agency developed a new cloud-based licensing system, Mockingbird, which began accepting applications in December 2025. Although businesses had several months to apply, approximately 1,500 applications were submitted between May 1 and June 30 as businesses prepared for the expiration of legacy licenses previously issued by another state agency.

To meet the unprecedented surge in applications, 15 TABC employees volunteered to work additional hours, including nights and weekends, to ensure applications continued moving through the review process.

"I couldn't be prouder of our staff," said TABC Executive Director Russell Thomas. "Fifteen employees voluntarily stepped up to work evenings and weekends because they understood how important this transition was for Tennessee businesses. Their dedication reflects this agency's commitment to public service."

As of today, the TABC has approved 1,301 HDCP licenses and continues processing applications seven days a week.

Every application undergoes a thorough review to ensure applicants meet statutory qualifications, including criminal history requirements and compliance with applicable state and local laws, such as required distance restrictions from K-12 schools. This careful review helps ensure licenses are issued fairly, consistently, and in accordance with Tennessee law.

"We appreciate the many businesses that prepared early, submitted complete applications, and worked with us throughout this transition," Thomas said. "Every application receives the same careful review required by law, and our team remains committed to processing applications as efficiently, fairly, and consistently as possible."

The transition has also resulted in a dramatic improvement in statewide compliance. Earlier this year, TABC inspected 5,602 businesses and identified 694 retailers selling HDCP without the required license. Since then, at least 95 percent of those businesses have either obtained the required license or ceased selling regulated products. The remaining businesses are being rechecked or remain under active investigation.

"The overwhelming majority of Tennessee businesses have demonstrated their commitment to operating responsibly and complying with the law," Thomas said. "We thank those businesses for doing the right thing and look forward to continuing our work with the industry as we complete this historic transition."

For more information about the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission and hemp-derived cannabinoid product licensing, visit www.tn.gov/abc.

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