Louisiana committee advances House Bill 36 for stricter hemp liability regulations

A new bill aimed at regulating consumable hemp products has sparked significant discussion among Louisiana lawmakers, focusing on the potential dangers of these substances, particularly for minors. During a recent meeting of the Louisiana Legislature's Civil Law Committee, representatives emphasized the need for stricter liability measures against those selling hemp products outside the state's legal framework.

The proposed legislation seeks to clarify that selling consumable hemp products not compliant with state regulations could result in civil liability if harm occurs. This includes penalties for selling these products to individuals under 21, as research indicates that THC can adversely affect brain development in adolescents, leading to long-term mental health issues.

Dr. Joseph Jones, a forensic toxicologist, voiced strong support for the bill, citing extensive research on the risks associated with cannabis use in young people. He highlighted the importance of keeping these products out of children's hands and criticized the current lack of regulation in the hemp industry, which he described as a "roulette" of unregulated products.

However, the bill has faced criticism from industry representatives, including Blaine Jennings, a former licensed hemp grower. Jennings raised concerns that the legislation could inadvertently classify federally approved hemp products from neighboring states as Schedule I narcotics if they do not meet Louisiana's specific regulations. He argued that existing laws already provide sufficient protections against underage sales and that the new bill could create unnecessary complications for the hemp industry.

Despite the pushback, the committee moved forward with amendments to the bill, which included clarifications on the definition of minors and the regulations surrounding consumable hemp. The discussions reflect a broader tension between public health concerns and the interests of the hemp industry in Louisiana, as lawmakers continue to navigate the complexities of cannabis regulation. The outcome of this bill could have significant implications for both consumer safety and the future of the hemp market in the state.