Bill > HB626

This bill establishes a regulatory framework for the cultivation, processing, manufacturing, and retail sale of cannabis and cannabis products in Louisiana. Key provisions include: - The Department of Agriculture and Forestry will be responsible for licensing and regulating cannabis production facilities, with a limit of 15 licenses statewide. Licensees must undergo criminal background checks and meet suitability requirements. - The Department will develop a seed-to-sale tracking system and testing procedures to ensure product safety and potency. Transportation of cannabis is restricted to licensed facilities and retailers. - The bill creates an annual personal cultivation permit allowing individuals 21 and older to grow up to 6 cannabis plants for personal use, with a limit of 12 plants per household. - The Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control will regulate the retail sale of cannabis, issuing 2-year permits to retailers. Retailers must verify customers are 21 or older, and are prohibited from selling more than 1 ounce to a customer per day or selling cannabis online. - The bill establishes civil penalties for violations and allows for the suspension or revocation of retailer permits for infractions like selling to minors or permitting illegal activities on the premises.