The nation’s largest public power company is raising questions about whether it can provide electricity to state-authorized cannabis operations.
The Tennessee Valley Authority suggested in a document that because it is owned by the federal government, it must conform to federal drug laws.
The utility wrote that it would therefore “not direct any federal resources or funds to the cultivation and/or distribution of marijuana.”
The document particularly raised concerns in Mississippi, which recently legalized medical marijuana.
Numerous local utilities in northern Mississippi rely on TVA power.
The utility confirmed the authenticity of the statement, but both state and TVA officials later attempted to quell concerns.
Although it is seeking further clarification, the TVA said, “There will be no interruption in service because of this newly signed law.”
Mississippi regulators added that utilities are required to serve customers “without discrimination” — including licensed medical marijuana facilities.
