Arkansas House Bill HB1605

Arkansas 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/13/23
• Refer: 3/13/23
• Report Pass: 3/15/23
• Failed: 5/1/23

Caption

To Provide Regulation Of Hemp-derived Products By The Arkansas Tobacco Control Board.

Impact

The legislation is intended to protect public health by allowing only safe, tested products into the market, which undermines the potential risks associated with unregulated hemp products. It establishes a New subchapter dedicated to hemp-derived products in the Arkansas Code, thereby formalizing the state's stance on hemp regulation. Additionally, it serves to regulate the entire commercial lifecycle of these products, from testing to sales, thereby creating a more structured market environment.

Summary

House Bill 1605 aims to establish a regulatory framework for hemp-derived products in Arkansas, under the oversight of the Arkansas Tobacco Control Board. The bill outlines the requirements for testing hemp-derived products, ensuring they are safe for consumers and free from contamination. The bill mandates that all products must undergo testing for various contaminants and includes specific criteria regarding the levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), establishing a maximum concentration of 0.3%. Only products that meet these testing criteria can be sold in Arkansas, thereby elevating safety and quality standards for consumers.

Contention

Notably, the bill has provisions concerning the sale of hemp-derived products to minors, making it illegal for individuals to provide these products to anyone under the age of 21. This raises discussions among stakeholders regarding the appropriate measures to safeguard youth while also considering the right to access lawful products for adults. Furthermore, there may be ongoing debates about the implications of these regulations on small retailers and the potential costs associated with compliance for businesses in the hemp industry.