This bill amends existing laws regarding hemp and establishes new offenses related to the adulteration and distribution of controlled substances. It modifies the definition of "hemp" to include all derivatives and extracts with a total tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) concentration of not more than 0.3 percent on a dry weight basis, replacing the previous definition that only referenced the plant itself. The bill explicitly prohibits the sale of hemp-derived products containing THC greater than 0.3 percent, including specific formulations like delta-8 THC and tetrahydrocannabinolic acid (THCA). Additionally, it mandates that liquor licensees comply with these prohibitions and prohibits the sale of such products to individuals under the age of 21.

Furthermore, the bill introduces the offenses of criminal adulteration and distribution of adulterated controlled substances, establishing penalties for individuals who knowingly mix controlled substances with unapproved additives. A class B felony is defined for those who adulterate substances with the intent to distribute, while a class A felony applies to those who possess or distribute substances they know contain unapproved additives. The bill emphasizes the importance of harm-reduction testing resources and outlines that these new penalties are in addition to existing laws. The effective date for most provisions is set for January 1, 2027, with specific sections contingent on the passage of another bill.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 439-A:4, 179:50
As Amended by the Senate: 439-A:2, 439-A:4, 179:50, 179:5
As Amended by the House: 439-A:2, 439-A:4, 179:50, 179:5
As Amended by the House (2nd): 439-A:2, 439-A:4, 179:50, 179:5
Version adopted by both bodies: 439-A:2, 439-A:4, 179:50, 179:5
CHAPTERED FINAL VERSION: 439-A:2, 439-A:4, 179:50, 179:5
SB624 text: 439-A:4, 179:50