Florida Senate Panel Takes Up Bill to Regulate Hemp Products and THC-Infused Drinks

Florida Senate Panel Debates Bill to Regulate Hemp Products and THC-Infused Drinks

For the third consecutive year, Florida lawmakers are reviewing a bill to regulate THC-derived hemp products, a booming industry in the state. The new proposal, introduced by Sen. Colleen Burton (SB 438), aims to address growing concerns about hemp-infused drinks, which have gained immense popularity in recent months. Under the bill, THC levels in these beverages would be restricted to no more than 5 milligrams per bottle or can.

New Regulations on Hemp-Infused Drinks

The bill also proposes limiting the sale of these drinks to locations licensed to sell alcohol. This has raised concerns among businesses like Herban Flow, a non-alcoholic bottle shop in St. Petersburg, which argues that being forced to obtain a liquor license would harm small businesses. The co-owners, who advocate for social inclusion without alcohol, feel the provision is overly restrictive.

Support from the Liquor Industry

On the other hand, liquor industry representatives, including those from the Florida Beer Wholesalers Association and ABC Fine Wine & Spirits, support the idea of regulating hemp-infused drinks similarly to alcohol. They argue that having consistent safety standards is vital for public safety and that THC products affect individuals differently, much like alcohol does.

Changes to Testing and Regulation

One key change in the bill is the shift from independent lab testing to using certified medical marijuana testing labs (CMTLs). This move comes after reports revealed that many hemp products on the market exceeded the legal THC limit and were contaminated. Some experts, like George Fernandez from Modern Canna Labs, have warned that these products are essentially “marijuana masquerading as hemp,” calling for stricter oversight.

Advertising Restrictions

The bill also includes provisions to restrict advertising of hemp products in public spaces, further controlling how these products are marketed to consumers. This is part of a broader effort to ensure the safe and responsible sale of hemp-derived THC products.

Looking Ahead

Sen. Burton’s proposal is progressing quickly through the legislative process, with only one more committee stop before reaching the Senate floor. The bill has strong support in the Agriculture Committee, but it’s unclear whether it will face any opposition in the House, where a similar bill, HB 1597, has yet to be reviewed.

This bill represents a critical step in regulating the rapidly growing hemp industry in Florida, addressing safety concerns, and ensuring that businesses selling THC products are held to the highest standards. As the state continues to refine its hemp regulations, the debate over how to balance business interests and public safety will continue to shape future legislation.