A bill aimed at regulating and taxing products like gummies, drinks, and other items containing hemp-derived chemicals was approved by the Alabama House Health Committee on Tuesday.
This bill is one of several under consideration this year regarding products made from THC and CBD, compounds derived from hemp, which is a variety of the marijuana plant.
THC, the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana, can also be found in variations known as Delta 8, Delta 9, and Delta 10.
Rep. Andy Whitt, R-Harvest, who sponsored the bill, emphasized that THC-infused consumables are harmful intoxicants often marketed to children and teens, despite being illegal for sale to individuals under 19.
During his committee testimony, Whitt pointed to an AL.com article reporting the expansion of the hemp-derived THC seltzer brand Herbal Oasis into Alabama and Florida panhandle stores as an example of the growing availability of such products. He argued that this highlights the need for regulatory measures.
The proposed bill would restrict sales to licensed establishments that prevent entry to individuals under 21. Whitt stated, “We need to get this genie back in its bottle and establish protective measures as soon as possible.”
The Health Committee approved the bill unanimously during a voice vote, following a public hearing that attracted a large turnout last week.
Industry advocates support some regulations, such as prohibiting sales to minors, but they believe Whitt’s bill goes too far and could harm an industry that offers products they argue are safer than alcohol for responsible adult consumers.
Under the bill, the Alcoholic Beverage and Control Board would regulate companies that manufacture, wholesale, and retail these products.
Sales would only be allowed at stores that ban people under 21.
The bill also proposes a 7% excise tax on the products, with manufacturers and wholesalers paying a $5,000 annual license fee, while retailers would pay $1,000 per year.
The bill sets limits on the THC content in edibles, beverages, and other consumables.
Packaging must be child-resistant, not designed to appeal to minors, and include labels with ingredient lists, THC content, and warnings about the risks for those under 21, pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, and the potential for impaired driving or machinery operation.
Manufacturers would also need to submit product samples for lab analysis and obtain certificates of analysis.
Violations, such as selling to people under 21, could result in fines, license suspensions, or revocations.
Rep. Jeremy Gray, D-Opelika, proposed conducting an economic impact study on the industry’s regulations.
Some advocates had raised similar concerns during last week’s public hearing, urging lawmakers not to rush through legislation on this complex subject.
Carmelo Parasiliti II, CEO of Green Acres Organic Pharms, expressed concern that punishing responsible adult users was not the solution.
Conversely, some individuals continue to call for a complete ban on such products.
With the Health Committee’s approval, the bill is now set for review by the full House, with Whitt hoping for consideration within the week.
Disclaimer- Our team has thoroughly fact-checked this article to ensure its accuracy and maintain its credibility. We are committed to providing honest and reliable content for our readers.