The proposed bill SB533 seeks to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework for consumable hemp products in Arkansas, under the oversight of the Arkansas Tobacco Control Board. It introduces new definitions for "industrial hemp" and "consumable hemp products," specifying that industrial hemp must have a delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol concentration of no more than 0.3% on a dry weight basis. The bill also adds consumable hemp products to the definition of marijuana under the Uniform Controlled Substances Act and creates a new subchapter dedicated to their regulation. Key provisions include the establishment of a permitting system for manufacturers, distributors, and retailers, along with annual fees and background checks for applicants. The bill emphasizes public health and safety, mandating that all consumable hemp products be tested by approved laboratories and prohibiting sales to minors.

Additionally, SB533 outlines strict advertising guidelines to prevent marketing that appeals to minors and requires retailers to maintain detailed transaction records for at least ten years. It also introduces penalties for violations, including fines for selling to minors and potential permit suspensions. The bill removes previous provisions that restricted individuals with felony convictions from obtaining permits and clarifies the responsibilities of law enforcement regarding the seizure and destruction of confiscated hemp products. Overall, SB533 aims to enhance the regulation of the hemp industry in Arkansas, ensuring compliance with safety standards while protecting public health and preventing illegal sales to minors.

Statutes affected:
Old version SB533 Original - 3-20-2025 12:35 PM: 2-15-503(5), 5-64-101(16), 5-64-215(a), 5-64-215(d), 19-6-301, 19-6-831, 26-57-247(b), 26-57-247, 26-57-249(b), 26-57-249, 26-57-255(g), 26-57-255, 26-57-256(a), 26-57-256(b), 26-57-256
Old version SB533 V2 - 4-2-2025 11:26 AM: 2-15-503(5), 5-64-101(16), 5-64-215(a), 5-64-215(d), 19-6-301, 19-6-831, 26-57-247(b), 26-57-247, 26-57-249(b), 26-57-249, 26-57-255(g), 26-57-255, 26-57-256(a), 26-57-256(b), 26-57-256
Old version SB533 V3 - 4-8-2025 10:09 AM: 2-15-503(5), 5-64-101(16), 5-64-215(a), 5-64-215(d), 19-6-301, 19-6-831, 26-57-247(b), 26-57-247, 26-57-249(b), 26-57-249, 26-57-255(g), 26-57-255, 26-57-256(a), 26-57-256(b), 26-57-256
SB 533: 2-15-503(5), 5-64-101(16), 5-64-215(a), 5-64-215(d), 19-6-301, 19-6-831, 26-57-247(b), 26-57-247, 26-57-249(b), 26-57-249, 26-57-255(g), 26-57-255, 26-57-256(a), 26-57-256(b), 26-57-256
Act 934: 2-15-503(5), 5-64-101(16), 5-64-215(a), 5-64-215(d), 19-6-301, 19-6-831, 26-57-247(b), 26-57-247, 26-57-249(b), 26-57-249, 26-57-255(g), 26-57-255, 26-57-256(a), 26-57-256(b), 26-57-256