SMART News
How Does Tennessee Regulate Cannabinoids? (Podcast)
In May 2023, Governor Lee signed SB 378/HB 403, which imposed significant regulations on the production and sale of hemp-derived cannabinoids, including Delta-8, Delta-10 and all other compounds known as cannabimimetics, which have effects on the same neurological system as marijuana.
Are More Syringe Service Programs Coming to Rural Tennessee? (Podcast)
My guest this month is Karen Pershing, executive director of Metro Drug Coalition. In the last legislative session, Karen played a significant role in pushing for a bill that reduced the barrier to opening new syringe service programs in rural Tennessee.
Are Xylazine Test Strips a Feasible Strategy?
Most people are now aware of fentanyl testing strips, which were decriminalized last year in Tennessee. But with the rise of xylazine (also known as tranq) as a contaminant in the fentanyl supply, many have been asking whether or not there are comparable testing strips for xylazine and if these would be significantly useful in curbing overdose fatalities.
What's Changing on College Campuses in Tennessee? (Podcast)
In 2020, the TN Together Student Survey found that the average age for first using a substance was 13 to 14 years old. Identifying and intervening at that age is thus crucial. Most of the time, however, the problem isn’t caught until later: usually when the person is college-aged.
