Bill > H143

This bill introduces comprehensive regulations for hemp products to protect public health and support farmers. It establishes a 10.75% excise tax on hemp product sales to consumers, with revenue initially directed to a new Hemp Product Education Fund for the first five fiscal years and then to the General Fund. The legislation creates strict guidelines for non-ingestible hemp products, prohibiting sales of products that are advertised as causing intoxication, packaged in child-like designs, or that could be mistaken for consumable items. Local boards of health are empowered to investigate potential violations, with enforcement actions ranging from written warnings for first-time offenses to potential permit revocations for repeated violations. The bill also updates definitions of hemp, hemp products, and marijuana across multiple state legal chapters, ensuring consistency in terminology and regulation. Importantly, the legislation limits cannabinoid concentrations in hemp products and requires marijuana establishments to comply with specific cultivation, manufacturing, and sales standards. Additionally, local boards of health must communicate the new requirements to relevant businesses within 90 days of the act's effective date, ensuring widespread understanding of the new regulatory framework.

Health and Social Services

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H143