House Bill 1597 amends Florida statutes to enhance the regulation of hemp and hemp extract products, particularly focusing on the operations of marijuana testing laboratories and the sale of these products. The bill stipulates that marijuana testing laboratories can only acquire hemp and hemp extract from licensed businesses and prohibits them from selling or distributing these products. It also mandates that these laboratories keep marijuana and hemp products separate, introduces new definitions and requirements for the sale of hemp extract, and prohibits sales of products that are attractive to children. Additionally, the bill establishes stricter regulations for the distribution and retail sale of hemp extract, including mandatory testing in certified laboratories and specific labeling and packaging requirements.

The legislation further restricts the sale of THC-infused beverages, allowing them to be sold only at licensed premises and prohibiting their mixing with alcoholic beverages. Distributors are barred from providing financial assistance or promotional items to retail vendors, who must purchase exclusively from licensed distributors. The bill imposes administrative fines for violations categorized as Class III offenses and includes provisions for the recall of unsafe or mislabeled products. The Department of Law Enforcement is allocated $2 million for necessary testing equipment, and the act is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 1597 Filed: 381.988