Substitute Senate Bill No. 970 seeks to amend Connecticut's laws regarding cannabinoids, hemp, and hemp products, with significant changes set to take effect on July 1, 2025. The bill repeals and replaces existing definitions in section 21a-240, particularly redefining "Marijuana" to exclude certain hemp products that are not classified as high-THC. New terms such as "moderate-THC hemp products" and "naturally manufactured hemp cannabinoids" are introduced, while references to high-THC hemp products are removed from the definition of marijuana. The bill also updates the definitions of "production," "sale," and "synthetic cannabinoid," clarifying that synthetic cannabinoids are those produced through chemical synthesis, excluding naturally manufactured hemp cannabinoids.

Additionally, the bill modifies the regulatory framework for the production and sale of hemp products, including the introduction of new testing requirements and labeling mandates. It requires manufacturers to include scannable codes linking to independent testing results on product packaging and prohibits misleading advertising. The bill also establishes protocols for the disposal of hemp products exceeding THC limits and allows for the sale of high-THC hemp products under specific conditions. Overall, sSB970 aims to modernize and streamline the regulation of hemp and cannabis products in Connecticut, enhancing consumer safety while aligning with federal standards.