After an effort to ban hemp-derived THC products in Louisiana failed last week, state lawmakers have given final approval to a bill that would add new regulations to the booming $33 million industry.
House Bill 952, carried by Rep. Dustin Miller, D-Opelousas, was sent to Gov. Jeff Landry's desk Monday after the House and Senate made a last-minute effort to hash out differences over what regulations should be included. The new regulations were only granted final approval with about 40 minutes left until the Legislature's 6 p.m. deadline.
The final version of the bill calls for age restrictions, limits on portion size for hemp-derived THC products and limits on where the products can be sold, including outlawing their sale at gas stations.
Once signed by Landry, the new law would go into effect on Jan. 1, 2025.
Here's a closer look at the new regulations.
THC and CBD products are seen for sale at a smoke shop on Coursey Boulevard, Wednesday, May 1, 2024, in Baton Rouge, La.
THC product changes
Likely the main difference for those who regularly buy consumable hemp-THC products, like Delta-8 and Delta-9 gummies or drinks, are changes in serving sizes.
Currently, the law allows products to have 8 mg of THC per serving. The new rules would lessen that to 5 mg per serving and lay out specific methods for determining serving size.
For beverages, one can or bottle would be considered a single serving, and no more than four cans or bottles could be sold together. Tinctures and other similar products would have to include a measuring device that portions out one serving.
And though inhalable hemp products, like THC vapes, are already outlawed, the bill also bans the sale of flower hemp products.
Age and location restrictions on consumable THC items
HB 952 outlaws gas stations from selling hemp-derived THC products.
Consumable hemp beverages, an alternative to alcohol that has risen in popularity, would also only be available at bars that already have a permit to sell them.
The new rules would prevent new restaurants or bars from applying for a permit to sell the drinks.
New age restrictions would be set in place as well, allowing only those 21 and older to buy hemp-THC products, a change from the current 18 and up restrictions.
Rad Dad Hemp is seen on Government Street, Thursday, May 2, 2024, in Baton Rouge, La.
More rules for retailers selling THC products
Additionally, the bill would add new regulations for hemp retailers and business owners, requiring new rules for product testing and that those selling hemp products have not been convicted of a felony.
Stores will also be required to keep all consumable hemp products, except for beverages, out of customers' reach.
