The bill, HB 952, aims to enhance the regulatory framework for consumable hemp products in Louisiana by introducing several key amendments. It raises the minimum age for purchasing these products from 18 to 21 and requires retailers to verify the age of purchasers with reliable identification. The legislation prohibits the addition of consumable hemp products to alcoholic beverages and bans the sale, production, and distribution of floral hemp material. Additionally, it establishes new definitions for terms such as "THC component" and "total THC," while maintaining existing licensing and testing requirements. The bill also sets a limit of 5 mg of total THC per serving and mandates child-resistant packaging.

Furthermore, HB 952 modifies the approval process for consumable hemp products by extending the review period from 15 to 60 days, requiring all products to be approved by the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) before sale. It specifies that wholesalers can only sell approved products to permitted retailers and introduces stricter penalties for permit violations. The bill also updates the composition of the Louisiana Industrial Hemp Promotion and Research Advisory Board, allowing for appointments by the Hemp Association of Louisiana instead of the commissioner of the office of alcohol and tobacco control. The new regulations are set to take effect on January 1, 2025, with certain provisions effective immediately upon the governor's signature.

Statutes affected:
HB952 Original: 3:1481(4), 3:1482(A), 3:1483(C), 3:1484(A), 3:1493(B)(9), 3:1481(1), 3:1482(E), 3:1483(B)(6)
HB952 Engrossed: 3:1481(4), 3:1482(A), 3:1483(C), 3:1484(A), 3:1493(B)(9), 3:1481(1), 3:1482(E), 3:1483(B)(6)
HB952 Reengrossed: 3:1481(4), 3:1482(A), 3:1483(C), 3:1484(A), 3:1493(B)(9), 3:1481(1), 3:1482(E), 3:1483(B)(6)
HB952 Enrolled: 3:1482(A), 3:1483(A), 3:1493(B)(9), 3:1483(B)(7)
HB952 Act 752: 3:1482(A), 3:1483(A), 3:1493(B)(9), 3:1483(B)(7)
Conference Committee Report, #5386, House Adopted, Senate Adopted: 3:1483(B)(7)