The Alabama House of Representatives voted Thursday to pass a bill that would establish state regulations and new restrictions on the sale of THC-infused gummies, drinks, and other consumable products derived from hemp.
The bill, introduced by Rep. Andy Whitt, R-Harvest, passed with a 76-15 vote. While there was no debate on the House floor, the bill had been thoroughly discussed in committee meetings prior to the vote.
Currently, Alabama law prohibits selling hemp-derived products to minors but does not regulate their sale to adults. Whitt’s bill aims to address concerns about the safety of products containing THC, the psychoactive compound found in marijuana, which comes in varieties like Delta 8, Delta 9, and Delta 10.
Supporters argue that these products pose a potential risk to children and teens, especially following the 2018 federal legalization of hemp production. Hemp is a cannabis plant, similar to marijuana but with a lower THC content.
During public hearings, lawmakers heard both support and opposition to the bill. Law enforcement and other supporters pointed to lab tests indicating that some hemp-derived products sold in Alabama exceeded the legal THC limits.
However, manufacturers and sellers of these products have expressed concern that the bill imposes overly restrictive measures. While they support regulations like age restrictions, they argue that the bill treats hemp-derived products more harshly than alcohol or tobacco, which are legal for adults.
Under the bill, sales of THC products would be restricted to stores that prohibit entry to anyone under the age of 21. The Alabama Association of Convenience Stores opposes this measure, arguing that such a restriction would limit consumer access.
Additionally, the bill would require the Alabama Alcoholic Beverage Control Board to license and regulate manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers of hemp-derived THC products.
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