As a recreational THC & CBD dispensary in Louisiana, we're closely following the legislative developments around cannabis. Recently, the Louisiana Senate passed SB237, a bill that could significantly impact the accessibility of hemp products in the state. This bill aims to eliminate almost every single hemp product currently available, from THC seltzers and edibles to CBD tinctures and topicals.
The Bill is currently about to be treated in the House of Representatives. This moment is crucial to define the future of the hemp industry in Louisiana, and we'll tell you why:
The Urgency of the Situation
SB237 has been referred to the Administration of Criminal Justice Committee, which holds the power to block the bill from moving forward. Other positive outcome is if the House of Representatives vote against the Bill.
Our best chance to prevent the negative impacts of this bill on the Louisiana hemp industry is right now.
Prioritizing Public Health
Ensuring public health and safety is paramount. While SB237 aims to address concerns about public health and safety, the complete ban it proposes may inadvertently lead consumers to seek unregulated products, posing potential risks.
Economic Impact
The passage of SB237 could have adverse effects on Louisiana's economy, including job losses and reduced tax revenue. Maintaining a regulated market for hemp products allows for economic growth and innovation while ensuring consumer safety.
Collaboration for Effective Policy
Developing effective cannabis policies requires collaboration between industry stakeholders, lawmakers, and regulatory agencies. We believe in fostering open dialogue and collaboration to ensure that regulations prioritize consumer safety and industry sustainability.
Addressing Concerns
While there are valid concerns about the availability and potency of hemp products, we believe that a balanced approach is necessary. Instead of outright prohibition, exploring regulatory frameworks that maintain consumer access while addressing safety concerns could offer a more nuanced solution.
Looking Back
In 1978, Louisiana broke ground in cannabis legislation by becoming the first state to legalize medical marijuana. However, the law soon encountered setbacks due to ambiguous supply provisions, hampering patients' access to medical marijuana. Over a decade later, Act No. 874 expanded the law, empowering doctors to evaluate patients for medical marijuana. Despite this progress, a reliable means for patients to obtain it remained elusive.
A turning point arrived in 2015 with the signing of SB 143, allowing non-smokable forms of marijuana and refining regulations for growth, dispensing, and prescription. Today, Louisiana has surmounted past obstacles, enabling patients to consult medical marijuana doctors, receive referrals, and purchase qualifying products. Though recreational legalization awaits, Louisiana always continued to advance towards more compassionate and sensible cannabis laws, reflecting evolving public sentiment and legislative action.
All this could be lost.
Looking Ahead
Regardless of the legislative outcome, we remain committed to navigating the evolving landscape of cannabis regulation responsibly. Our goal is to continue providing safe and enjoyable experiences for our customers while contributing positively to Louisiana's cannabis industry.
As a recreational THC & CBD dispensary, we recognize the importance of maintaining accessibility to hemp products in Louisiana. Your support is crucial in ensuring that policymakers understand the impact of SB237 on the local hemp industry. Together, we can work towards a solution that prioritizes consumer safety and industry sustainability.
How can we help?
Call our reps! These are four of the legislators who have the most control in moving these bills through the legislative process. Feel free to talk about your personal experiences and why they shouldn't pass the bill.
Rep. Phillip DeVillier
Speaker of the House
(225) 342-7263
Sen. Cameron Henry
Senate President
(225) 342-9990
Rep. Troy Romero
Chairman, Agricultural Committee
(337) 824-0376
Sen. Patrick McMath
Chairman, Health Committee
(985) 900-6278