Florida’s Hemp Workgroup Concludes with Regulatory Insights

News Summary

In Florida, a 24-member hemp workgroup wrapped up a three-day workshop focused on the complexities of hemp regulation. Chaired by Michelle Salzman, the group aimed to better inform lawmakers amid growing concerns over the lack of oversight in the booming hemp market. Discussions highlighted issues such as misleading product labeling and the urgent need for regulatory standards, especially for new hemp-derived products. New legislation is being proposed to establish THC limits and enhance consumer safety, reflecting the industry’s rapid growth and the need for clarity in regulations.

Florida’s Hemp Workgroup Wraps Up with Insights and Regulations in the Works

In sunny Florida, a 24-member workgroup dedicated to understanding the ins and outs of the hemp industry concluded its three-day workshop on March 6, 2025. Chaired by Republican Michelle Salzman from Escambia County, this energetic group met to dive deep into the complexities of hemp regulation rather than to offer legislative recommendations. House Speaker Danny Perez put together the workgroup with one clear goal: to better inform lawmakers about the booming hemp market.

Understanding the Hemp Landscape

The workgroup kicked off with Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson addressing the multifaceted nature of the hemp market. Under federal law, hemp is classified as having less than 0.3% THC, which is the main psychoactive component in cannabis. Despite this, industry experts pointed out that hemp can still produce cannabinoids with intoxicating effects.

While Florida’s medical marijuana market is strictly regulated, the hemp sector was described as resembling the “wild, wild west.” Rep. Toby Oberdorf, representing Southeast Florida, highlighted a growing concern over the lack of regulation in the hemp industry. For instance, he mentioned that hemp-derived gummies might be stronger than legally prescribed THC products available in the state.

Raising Concerns Over New Products

Another member of the workgroup, Central Florida Republican Richard Gentry, voiced worries about the rise of hemp-derived THC-infused drinks. While these beverages are non-alcoholic, they still can result in intoxication, making it a hot topic for discussion. Testimony from Chas Bailes, CEO of ABC Fine Wine & Spirits, confirmed that these hemp-infused drinks have made their way into stores largely due to customer demand.

Some beverages contain as much as 100 milligrams of THC, raising eyebrows about the safety and labeling of such products. The stakes became even clearer when George Fernandez, who operates a testing lab, revealed that most hemp products tested in the state failed to meet the acceptable THC limit. A staggering 64% of samples analyzed did not comply, with many failing for issues like pesticides, microbials, and heavy metals.

Mismatched Standards and State Responses

The discrepancies in testing were alarming, as a majority of hemp products sold in Florida are tested by out-of-state labs. This has led to differences in testing standards and raises questions about consumer safety. As the industry has grown rapidly since the 2018 U.S. farm bill legalized hemp production, Florida has been working on establishing its own regulatory framework.

Dr. Gillian Schauer from the Cannabis Regulators Association put the spotlight on how various states are managing hemp markets and what kind of framework Florida should adopt. Her insights beckoned questions regarding limits on intoxicants, serving sizes, and potential taxation policies. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, Senator Colleen Burton pushed for comprehensive hemp regulation in the past legislative sessions, calling for limits on Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC levels. Following a veto from Governor Ron DeSantis last year on proposed restrictions, 2025 has brought renewed efforts for regulation.

A New Era of Regulation on the Horizon

With legislation (SB 438) on the table, Senator Burton is advocating for THC limits of 5 milligrams per serving and 50 milligrams per container. In contrast, Senator Tracie Davis has proposed even stricter measures, suggesting a cap of 2 milligrams per serving and 20 milligrams per container. Meanwhile, other Republican members in the House are preparing their own measures in response to the growing urgency for regulation.

As industry operators yearn for clarity and consistency in application, new rules from the Florida Department of Agriculture aimed at preventing access to hemp products by children will take effect on March 12, 2025. The amended regulations include strict marketing guidelines, required labeling, and child-resistant packaging, ensuring that the ambiguities of previous laws are addressed.

As Florida continues to navigate the complexities of the hemp industry, it is clear that the need for proper regulation and safe consumer access is at the forefront of the conversation.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• Florida Phoenix: Hemp Regulations Hazy After House Workgroup Wraps Up Its Business
• Dentons: Cannabis Client Alert – Week of March 3, 2025
• Florida Phoenix: New Regulations on Hemp Products in Florida Introduced in Legislature
• Ganjapreneur: Florida Proposal Would Regulate Intoxicating Hemp Products
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Medical Marijuana Debate