Senate Bill No. SLS 23RS-231, introduced by Senator Cathey, seeks to establish a comprehensive regulatory framework for industrial hemp and consumable hemp products in Louisiana. The bill introduces new definitions and provisions, recognizing industrial hemp as an agricultural commodity while prohibiting the sale of beverages containing hemp-derived psychotropic cannabinoids. It also raises the legal age for purchasing consumable hemp products from eighteen to twenty-one years and mandates age verification for sales. Additionally, the bill emphasizes public health and safety by prohibiting the production and sale of recreational adult-use intoxicating substances derived from industrial hemp and requires that consumable hemp products be packaged in child-resistant and tamper-evident containers.

The legislation amends various sections of the Louisiana Revised Statutes, including establishing a THC limit of 0.3 percent per serving or package, and repeals certain provisions under R.S. 3:1482(E) to streamline regulatory approaches. It imposes strict penalties for violations related to the processing and sale of hemp products, including imprisonment and fines, and prohibits remote retailers from selling specific hemp products online. Overall, the bill aims to enhance consumer protection and ensure compliance with state laws while effectively regulating the hemp industry in Louisiana.

Statutes affected:
SB219 Original: 3:1462(10), 3:1482(S, 3:1483(B)(6), 3:1484(B)(4), 3:1482(E)
SB219 Engrossed: 3:1462(10), 3:1482(S, 3:1483(B)(6), 3:1484(B)(4), 3:1482(E)