House Bill 1597 amends Florida Statutes to establish comprehensive regulations for the acquisition, sale, and distribution of hemp and hemp extract products, with a particular focus on marijuana testing laboratories. The bill stipulates that these laboratories can only source hemp and hemp extract from licensed businesses and prohibits them from selling or distributing these products. It mandates that all hemp extracts must undergo testing in certified laboratories prior to sale, and imposes strict requirements on businesses selling hemp products, including bans on sales that appeal to children and restrictions on business locations. The bill also revises definitions related to hemp and hemp extract, establishes penalties for violations, and outlines the responsibilities of event organizers regarding the sale of hemp products.

Additionally, the bill introduces specific provisions for THC-infused beverages, limiting their sale to individuals over 21 and ensuring they are not mixed with alcohol or other intoxicating substances. It requires that these beverages be sold only at licensed premises and prohibits retail vendors from purchasing them from unlicensed distributors or returning products based on stock levels. Violations of these regulations will incur administrative fines categorized as Class III offenses, and the Department of Law Enforcement is allocated $2 million in nonrecurring funds for necessary testing equipment. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2025, and clarifies that licensees who negligently violate these provisions will face only administrative penalties, avoiding further criminal or civil enforcement actions.

Statutes affected:
H 1597 Filed: 381.988