Louisiana Committee Advances Cannabis Regulatory Framework Bill

LOS ANGELES- The Louisiana House Health and Welfare Committee has unanimously passed House Bill 707, setting the stage for a comprehensive regulatory framework for recreational cannabis use. Introduced by Rep. Edmond Jordan, the bill aims to establish foundational elements for future legislation that would fully legalize and regulate adult-use cannabis in Louisiana.

Although not legalizing recreational cannabis directly, HB-707 outlines the framework for retail operations and home cultivation, allowing adults over the age of 21 to purchase one ounce of cannabis daily and grow up to six plants for personal use, with a permit fee of $75 annually. These provisions are intended to prepare for a broader legalization effort expected in upcoming legislative sessions.

Rep. Jordan highlighted the economic benefits of a regulated cannabis market, suggesting that legalization could generate over $1 billion in tax revenue over the next decade. This includes an annual contribution of $100 million to the state’s general fund. Economic forecasts provided by the Vicente law firm estimate that by 2033, the adult-use cannabis market in Louisiana could reach a valuation of approximately $900 million.

During the committee meeting, several amendments were adopted, including transferring cannabis program oversight from the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Fisheries to the Department of Health, and modifying licensing and penalty structures. This legislative movement comes amid a broader trend of cannabis decriminalization and regulation within the state, highlighted by recent initiatives to expunge past cannabis-related convictions and address issues within the existing medical cannabis framework.

The bill now moves to the floor for further debate, where Rep. Jordan intends to address concerns and opposition, emphasizing the need for regulation to enhance safety and control in the market.