The contentious bill that governs hemp-derived products in Alabama is currently awaiting the decision of Gov. Kay Ivey. House Bill 445, which Congress passed in early May, has garnered significant attention from small business owners, patients, advocates, and even law enforcement. Many believe that stronger regulations are essential.
Ivey has several options: she can sign the bill, veto it, or let it become law without her signature. Should she choose to veto, the bill would return to lawmakers for potential amendments or a chance to override the veto with a 51% majority. If they don’t act, the bill could be effectively dead.
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Opponents of HB445 have started a petition on change.org, amassing over 800 signatures by mid-May. They argue that the bill could cause financial harm to the community.
Signers shared their personal stories about their reliance on hemp products. For example, a veteran with PTSD described how THC-A has positively affected his appetite, sleep, and digestion. Meanwhile, a 61-year-old disabled worker in Fort Spain expressed concern that the proposed restrictions would jeopardize her clinic, which is her primary income source. Even the owner of a Mobile clinic warned that the bill would disrupt his supply chain and hinder customers seeking alternative wellness solutions.
HB445 would impose significant limitations on hemp-based products in Alabama, including:
- Banning the smoking of hemp products
- Capping THC in edibles at 10mg per serving
- Prohibiting online sales and delivery
- Introducing a 10% excise tax
- Mandating an annual retailer license fee of $1,000
- Establishing possible criminal penalties of up to 10 years for non-compliance
Key figures involved in this debate include Joe Resha, CEO of Avondale Apothecary in Birmingham, and Ashley Otwell of Magic City Organics.
Abby Rice mentioned to FOX10 News that hemp-derived products can help manage rheumatoid arthritis and anxiety without resorting to potentially harmful medications.
Related: State Rep. Andy Whitt discusses Alabama laws concerning Delta-8
Supporters of HB445 argue that it’s a necessary update to regulations. Rep. Andy Whitt (R-Harvest), who sponsored the bill, claimed to Alabama Reflector that unregulated hemp products have been sold to minors in convenience stores, highlighting a need for protective measures.
Proponents from law enforcement cite lab findings indicating that some retail items contain THC levels exceeding the legal limit of 0.3%. They believe HB445 is a crucial response to the growing availability of hemp products marketed to children.
The oversight for these regulations would be transferred to the Alabama Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC) Committee, with enforcement scheduled to commence on January 1, 2026, as noted by Billtrack50.
