The proposed bill, SB1453, seeks to regulate the possession, production, and sale of hemp-derived manufactured impairing cannabinoids in Arizona. Under the new legislation, individuals and entities must hold a certificate as a medical or recreational marijuana dispensary and obtain approval from the Department of Health Services (DHS) to engage in activities involving these cannabinoids. The bill explicitly prohibits the sale or distribution of these products outside of Arizona and imposes strict regulations on medical and recreational marijuana dispensaries regarding their handling of hemp-derived cannabinoids. Violations of these regulations would be classified as a class 2 misdemeanor.
Additionally, the bill outlines specific definitions and requirements for hemp-derived manufactured impairing cannabinoids, including labeling and health warning mandates. It allows the DHS to adopt rules governing the processing and sale of these products, ensuring public health and safety. The bill also provides for private causes of action for individuals harmed by violations of the law, and it permits the use of funds from the Medical Marijuana Fund and the Smart and Safe Arizona Fund to support the implementation and regulation of these cannabinoids. Overall, the bill aims to create a structured framework for the management of hemp-derived cannabinoids while ensuring consumer safety and compliance with state regulations.