Florida lawmakers are advancing legislation aimed at tightening regulations on hemp-derived THC products, including popular items like Delta-8 THC and THC-infused beverages. The proposed bills seek to impose new restrictions and taxes on these products, sparking debate among industry stakeholders, public health officials, and consumers.
Key Provisions of the Proposed Legislation:
- THC Limits: The bills propose capping THC content in hemp-derived products. For edibles and inhalables, the limit would be 5 milligrams per serving. Hemp-infused beverages would also be restricted to 5 milligrams of THC per container. Additionally, individuals would be prohibited from purchasing more than 100 milligrams of THC from hemp products within a 24-hour period.
- Excise Tax: A 15% excise tax would be levied on all hemp-derived THC products. The first $6 million collected annually would fund the General Inspection Trust Fund for product testing and enforcement, with the remainder directed to the state’s general revenue.
- Sales Restrictions: The legislation would restrict the sale of hemp-infused beverages to establishments licensed to sell alcoholic beverages, such as liquor stores and bars. This move has drawn criticism from convenience store owners and non-alcoholic retailers who currently sell these products.
- Packaging and Marketing: To prevent appeal to minors, the bills would ban packaging that resembles candy or includes cartoons and other child-friendly imagery. Products must also be kept out of reach of customers, either behind counters or in locked display cases.
- Consumption Near Schools: The legislation would prohibit the consumption of hemp-derived THC products within 1,000 feet of schools between 6 a.m. and midnight, with violators facing fines or community service.
Industry and Public Response:
The proposed regulations have elicited mixed reactions. Supporters argue that the measures are necessary to ensure public safety, particularly for children, and to standardize product quality. They point to instances of unregulated products leading to hospitalizations and other health concerns.
Opponents, including hemp industry representatives and small business owners, contend that the restrictions could devastate the burgeoning hemp market in Florida. They argue that the THC limits and sales restrictions are arbitrary and could drive consumers back to the illicit market. Some also express concern that the regulations favor large, established businesses at the expense of smaller operators.
Legislative Outlook:
The bills have passed through key House committees and are headed for floor votes. While similar legislation was vetoed by Governor Ron DeSantis in the past, the current proposals have been amended to address some of his previous concerns. It remains to be seen whether the governor will support the new measures.
As Florida navigates the complexities of regulating hemp-derived THC products, the outcome of this legislative effort could set a precedent for other states grappling with similar issues.
For more on topics like these, check this link out FORMER CANNABIS PRISONERS RALLY AT WHITE HOUSE, URGE BIDEN TO FREE OTHERS LEFT BEHIND
