Senate Bill No. by Senator Talbot seeks to amend and reenact various sections of Louisiana's laws concerning industrial and consumable hemp products, introducing new definitions and regulations. The bill defines terms such as "consumable food manufacturing distributor," "synthetic cannabinoid," and "dry weight basis," while establishing licensure requirements for growers, processors, and retailers in the hemp industry, along with annual fees for these licenses. It mandates that consumable food manufacturing distributors obtain a $500 annual license, which requires a pending "Good Manufacturing Practices" certification and a current food manufacturing license. Additionally, only licensed distributors are permitted to sell inhalable hemp products, and they must report their sales and distribution activities monthly.

The legislation also imposes strict prohibitions on the sale and processing of hemp products, particularly those intended for inhalation, and restricts the sale of alcoholic beverages containing cannabinoids. It requires all entities involved in the sale of hemp products to have a physical business location in Louisiana and be licensed by the Department of Health. The bill emphasizes accountability through registry reports and introduces penalties for non-compliance, including fines for selling unlawful hemp products and failing to report sales. This comprehensive framework aims to enhance safety and accountability in Louisiana's hemp industry, with the bill set to take effect on August 1, 2024.

Statutes affected:
SB495 Original: 3:1467(B)