California Assembly introduces AB 8 to regulate intoxicating hemp products

The Assembly Business and Professions Committee of the California State Assembly convened on April 22, 2025, to discuss significant legislative measures aimed at regulating the hemp industry and addressing the ongoing issue of copper wire theft.

The meeting began with Assemblymember Agua Curry presenting Assembly Bill 8 (AB 8), which seeks to enhance the regulation of hemp-derived products, particularly those containing intoxicating cannabinoids. Assemblymember Curry highlighted the need for stricter enforcement to protect consumers, especially children, from unregulated and potentially harmful hemp products. The bill aims to close existing loopholes that allow the sale of intoxicating hemp products without age restrictions and integrate hemp products into the existing cannabis regulatory framework. This integration would ensure that all products containing THC are subject to the same testing, taxation, and safety standards as cannabis products.

Supporters of AB 8, including representatives from the California Cannabis Operators Association and the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) Western States Council, emphasized the importance of aligning the hemp and cannabis markets to combat the illicit market and protect public health. They cited alarming statistics from a recent report indicating that a significant percentage of hemp-derived THC products exceed legal limits and are marketed irresponsibly, often targeting children.

However, the bill faced opposition from groups representing small cannabis businesses, who expressed concerns that integrating hemp into the cannabis supply chain could undermine the integrity of California's regulated cannabis market. They argued that allowing high-THC hemp products to be sold alongside cannabis could threaten the livelihoods of licensed cannabis cultivators who adhere to stringent regulations.

Following the discussion on AB 8, the committee turned its attention to Assembly Bill 476 (AB 476), aimed at enhancing enforcement against copper wire theft. The bill proposes to expand the types of information that junk dealers and recyclers must collect before purchasing metals like copper, prohibit possession of certain scrap metals without documentation, and increase penalties for theft. Assemblymember Pellerin, who introduced the bill, highlighted the severe financial and public safety impacts of copper theft, citing specific examples from his district where stolen copper wiring has left critical infrastructure, such as streetlights, inoperable.

The committee members engaged in discussions about the implications of both bills, with a focus on balancing regulatory measures with the needs of legitimate businesses. While AB 8 aims to protect consumers and ensure safety in the hemp market, AB 476 seeks to address the pressing issue of copper theft that affects communities statewide.

As the meeting concluded, Assemblymember Pellerin reiterated the importance of both legislative efforts in safeguarding public health and infrastructure. The committee plans to continue discussions and refine the proposed bills to address the concerns raised by stakeholders.