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SB 2323

Drugs, Over the Counter - As introduced, increases the amount of products containing ephedrine or pseudoephedrine a person may purchase in a one-year period from 43.2 grams to 61.2 grams; changes references to the "National Precursor Log Exchange" to the "electronic sales tracking system"; requires any manufacturer of an ephedrine or pseudoephedrine product that is sold in or into this state to, on a monthly basis, pay fees to the administrator of the electronic sales tracking system. - Amends TCA Title 39, Chapter 17, Part 4.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Ferrell Haile

Tennessee raises annual ephedrine/pseudoephedrine purchase limits 41% and requires manufacturers to fund a new electronic tracking system to monitor sales.

Companion House Bill substituted
#drugs #overthecounter
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 2323

Legislative bill overview

SB 2323 increases the annual purchase limit for products containing ephedrine or pseudoephedrine from 43.2 grams to 61.2 grams per person, modernizes tracking by replacing the "National Precursor Log Exchange" with an "electronic sales tracking system," and requires manufacturers selling these products in Tennessee to pay monthly fees to support the tracking system.

Why is this important

Ephedrine and pseudoephedrine are common decongestants in over-the-counter cold medicines, but they're also precursor chemicals used to manufacture methamphetamine. The purchase limits and tracking systems exist to balance consumer access to legitimate medications with law enforcement's ability to prevent illegal drug production. This bill affects both public health policy and funding mechanisms for drug diversion prevention.

Potential points of contention

  • Consumer impact: Increasing purchase limits by 41% may benefit people with chronic respiratory conditions or large households but could weaken safeguards against bulk purchases for methamphetamine production
  • Manufacturer fees: The new monthly fee structure shifts enforcement costs from the state to private companies, which may increase product prices for consumers or face industry pushback
  • Tracking system modernization: Transitioning to a new electronic system involves implementation costs and risks, with unclear details on whether the new system provides equivalent or reduced law enforcement capability compared to current tracking

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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