Arkansas 2025 Regular Session

Arkansas Senate Bill SB455

Introduced

3/13/25

Refer

3/13/25

Refer

3/19/25

Failed

5/5/25

Caption

To Allow Regulation Of Hemp Products By Arkansas Tobacco Control; And To Amend The Uniform Controlled Substances Act To Remove Certain Substances That Are Defined As Hemp Products.

Impact

The bill introduces structured guidance on cannabis product regulation within Arkansas, addressing legality, safety, and product quality. Moreover, it imposes stringent licensing fees for manufacturers and retailers of hemp products, which may both ensure safety standards and generate revenue for the state. The establishment of an asset forfeiture fund tied to the regulation of hemp and tobacco products reflects a significant operational structure aimed at reinforcing regulatory compliance.

Summary

Senate Bill 455 aims to provide regulatory oversight of hemp products by the Arkansas Tobacco Control. The bill amends the Uniform Controlled Substances Act to delineate which hemp-derived substances are excluded from the definition of marijuana. Specifically, it permits the sale of hemp-derived cannabidiol products that contain less than 0.3% delta-9 THC on a dry weight basis, assuming they have not been FDA-approved as medications. This legislative change reflects a growing acknowledgment of hemp's potential role in commerce and the need for state regulation.

Contention

Key points of contention surrounding this bill include debates over the balance between regulation and commerce in the hemp product market. Supporters advocate for the necessity of regulation to protect public health and ensure quality control, while detractors may fear overreach and constraints on the burgeoning hemp industry which has been marking growth in various aspects including wellness and alternative products. Furthermore, stipulations regarding the penalties for non-compliance and background checks for permit applicants may provoke discussions around fairness and access in the licensing process.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

AR SB358

To Prohibit Industrial Hemp That Contain Certain Delta Tetrahydrocannabinol Substances; To Include Certain Tetrahydrocannabinol In The List Of Schedule Vi Controlled Substances; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR HB1605

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

AR HB1725

To Inform The Public Of Health Risks Caused By Vapor Products, E-liquid Products, And Alternative Nicotine Products; And To Ensure The Safety Of Arkansas Youth.

AR SB283

Creating The Fentanyl Enforcement And Accountability Act Of 2023; Concerning Fentanyl And Other Controlled Substances; To Establish Increased Penalties; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR HB1456

Creating The Fentanyl Enforcement And Accountability Act Of 2023; Concerning Fentanyl And Other Controlled Substances; To Establish Increased Penalties; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR SB40

To Exclude Fentanyl Test Strips From The Definition Of "drug Paraphernalia" Under The Uniform Controlled Substances Act.

AR SB274

To Restrict Wholesale Distributors Of Controlled Substances And Legend Drugs From Limiting Or Terminating Sales Of Controlled Substances To Certain Licensed Professionals; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR SB502

To Require Wholesale Distributors Of Controlled Substances To Educate, Communicate, And Provide Due Process For Licensed Professionals Before Limiting Or Terminating Sales Of Controlled Substances; And To Declare An Emergency.

AR HB1732

AR SB78

To Amend The Arkansas Data Centers Act Of 2023; To Prohibit Foreign-party-controlled Ownership Of A Digital Asset Mining Business; And To Declare An Emergency.

Similar Bills

AR SB533

To Provide For The Regulation Of Consumable Hemp Products By The Arkansas Tobacco Control Board; And To Amend The Arkansas Law To Allow Regulation And Purchase Of Consumable Hemp Products.

AR HB1722

To Provide For The Regulation Of Hemp-derived Products By The Arkansas Tobacco Control Board; To Amend The Arkansas Law To Allow The Regulation And Purchase Of Hemp-derived Products; And To Declare An Emergency.

WI AB506

Legalizing the possession of marijuana; medical marijuana; regulating the production, processing, and sale of marijuana; expunging or redesignating past convictions for marijuana-related crimes; equity grants; making an appropriation; and providing a penalty. (FE)