Legislature passes HB445 regulating THC products and authorizing firearm retirement benefits for officers

A significant legislative shift occurred in Alabama as the House passed HB445, a bill regulating the sale of THC-infused products. The bill, which received overwhelming support with 76 votes in favor and only 15 against, mandates that these products be sold exclusively in stores licensed by the Alabama Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) and limits THC content to 5 milligrams for drinks and gummies. This move aims to restrict the availability of THC products in convenience stores and outlaw inhalable forms, such as vape products and cannabis buds.

The bill's passage reflects a growing trend towards stricter regulation of cannabis-related products in the state, emphasizing public health and safety. Representative discussions highlighted the importance of keeping these products out of reach for minors by ensuring they are only available in adult-only establishments.

In a related legislative effort, the House also adopted a substitute bill concerning retirement benefits for law enforcement officers. This bill allows certain county and municipal agencies to present retiring officers with their agency-issued badges and firearms. The substitute, which passed with 97 votes in favor and 1 against, aims to support smaller agencies that may struggle to cover the costs of issuing firearms to retiring officers.

These legislative actions signal a proactive approach by Alabama lawmakers to address both public health concerns regarding cannabis and the welfare of law enforcement personnel, setting the stage for future discussions on these critical issues.