House Bill 1597 amends Florida Statutes to establish comprehensive regulations for the acquisition, sale, and distribution of hemp and hemp extract products. The bill specifies that marijuana testing laboratories can only source hemp and hemp extract from licensed businesses and prohibits them from selling or transferring these products. It introduces new definitions and legislative findings regarding hemp, mandates the separation of marijuana and hemp products, and revises the requirements for the sale and distribution of hemp extract. Notably, it prohibits unpermitted sales and restricts the sale of products that may appeal to children, while also establishing penalties for violations and requiring that hemp extract undergo testing in certified laboratories before being sold.

Additionally, the bill sets forth specific conditions for businesses selling hemp or hemp extract, including location restrictions and advertising limitations. It prohibits the sale of THC-infused beverages to individuals under 21 and ensures these products do not contain alcohol or intoxicating substances. Event organizers are tasked with ensuring compliance with these regulations and must provide a list of vendors selling hemp products at events. The legislation also includes provisions for administrative fines for violations, stringent testing requirements for hemp extracts, and appropriates $2 million in nonrecurring funds for the Department of Law Enforcement to acquire necessary testing equipment. The act is scheduled to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 1597 Filed: 381.988