Florida Senate Advances Legislation to Ban Delta-8 THC

LOS ANGELES— In a decisive move, the Florida Senate on Tuesday passed legislation aimed at banning delta-8 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) products while introducing new, stringent regulations on the state’s burgeoning hemp industry. This unanimous decision reflects the legislature’s growing concern over the unregulated proliferation of hemp-derived substances, particularly those appealing to minors.

The bill, spearheaded by State Senator Colleen Burton (R-Lakeland), seeks to significantly limit the accessibility and consumption of delta-8 THC, a compound that has risen in popularity due to its psychoactive effects, which are milder than those of delta-9 THC, the main intoxicating agent in cannabis. Under the proposed legislation, consumer hemp products will face strict THC concentration caps: no more than 2 milligrams per serving and 10 milligrams per package or container.

Building on regulatory groundwork laid last year, which barred the sale of hemp THC products to individuals under 21, this new proposal extends protections by banning hemp products deemed appealing to children. Specifically, it targets products shaped or packaged in a manner that could attract minors, such as those featuring human figures, cartoons, animals, toys, or other child-centric imagery.

“The intent behind our hemp program was never to facilitate the consumption of intoxicating substances,” Senator Burton remarked on the Senate floor. “The unforeseen escalation in the misuse of these products has compelled us to reinforce our regulatory framework to safeguard Floridians, particularly our youth.”

Additionally, the legislation allocates $2 million for a one-time purchase of testing equipment by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. This investment is intended to bolster the state’s capacity to distinguish legal hemp products from those that may contain illegal concentrations of THC.

As the bill progresses to the House, where it is expected to receive favorable consideration, stakeholders within the hemp industry are bracing for the potential impact of these regulations. The proposed measures reflect a broader legislative effort to navigate the complex landscape of hemp-derived products while prioritizing public health and safety.

This legislative action underscores Florida’s commitment to regulating the rapidly evolving hemp market, balancing the benefits of hemp-derived products with the need to protect consumers from potentially harmful substances.