News Summary
Alabama is set to implement new regulations for hemp and THC products following the passage of bill HB445. Sponsored by Representative Andy Whitt, the bill introduces stricter controls, including the prohibition of sales to those under 21 and a tax on THC products. Concerns about marketing targeting children and potential impacts on local businesses have sparked debates among officials and stakeholders. The law aims to address public health while balancing business interests, with provisions expected to take effect in 2026 if enacted.
Alabama is poised to make significant changes to how hemp and THC products are regulated, following the passage of a new bill, HB445. Sponsored by Representative Andy Whitt, the legislation has successfully cleared both the Alabama House of Representatives and Senate and is now awaiting the signature of Governor Kay Ivey. If enacted, this bill will bring stricter regulations on the sale and distribution of hemp and THC products within the state.
The key provisions of HB445 include the regulation of sales of hemp products such as drinks and gummies, with a complete prohibition on sales to individuals under 21 years old. Additionally, THC products will be taxed at a rate of 10%. The bill also imposes limits on THC serving sizes, restricting them to a maximum of 10 milligrams per serving, and regulated by the state’s Alcoholic Beverage Control Board (ABC). Under the proposed law, smokers of THC products will have to adjust to the restrictions as smokable THC products, including flowers, would be banned entirely.
Concerns surrounding the marketing of THC products, particularly those aimed at children, prompted the introduction of this bill. Representative Whitt pointed out alarming trends, such as the emergence of “THC-flavored nachos,” indicating that there has been a push to target younger consumers with these products.
However, the regulations have drawn criticism from some business owners, who argue that the new legislation could negatively impact their operations. For example, Carmelo Parasiliti, a business owner at Green Acres Organic Pharms, expressed concern that the regulations threaten their customer programs, which include providing THC products for free to cancer patients. A petition on Change.org has amassed nearly 1,300 signatures from individuals opposing the bill.
The bill also has raised alarms among local officials. Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin articulated worries that the legislation could harm local businesses and lead to job losses. Should Governor Ivey enact the law, THC products will only be allowed in specific areas of grocery stores or designated licensed shops for customers aged 21 and over. Furthermore, retailers will face stringent penalties for violations, including a fine starting at $5,000 for selling to underage individuals.
The regulations imposed by HB445 modify previous attempts at regulating THC products in the state, increasing the permissible THC per serving from 5 to 10 milligrams. Moreover, the legislation will require retailers to pay an annual licensing fee of $1,000 to sell these products. The restrictions on THC products will allow only those containing less than 10 milligrams per serving and no more than 40 milligrams per package to be sold.
There is growing concern among consumers who rely on these products for pain relief and anxiety management, as they worry about the impact this bill could have on their access to essential products. Critics, including the Alabama Policy Institute, argue that the bill does not go far enough in preventing minors from easily accessing recreational marijuana products.
If Governor Ivey does not take action on the bill by the end of the day Wednesday, it will automatically become law. Should the bill be signed into law, its provisions are set to take effect on January 1, 2026.
As Alabama navigates these potential changes, the clash between public health concerns, business interests, and consumer access appears set to continue, with discussions about the future of hemp and THC regulation in the state far from settled.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- WSFA: Protestors Desperate Bill to Reshape Alabama’s Hemp Industry
- Wikipedia: Hemp
- Alabama Daily News: Alabama Policy Institute Urges Ivey to Veto or Amend THC Regulation Bill
- Google Search: Alabama THC Regulations
- AL.com: Alabama CBD, THC Businesses Face Closure
- Encyclopedia Britannica: THC
- NBC15: Controversial CBD Bill Awaiting Governor’s Signature
- Google News: Alabama Hemp Industry
