The Latest on Louisiana Hemp

Louisiana took a pivotal step when the state became the 44th to allow farmers to grow hemp. Governor Jon Bel Edwards signed the law in June 2020 to pave the way for legal hemp operations. With the passage of the law, the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry is currently accepting license applications for the state’s industrial hemp program. To grow, handle, transport, or process hemp seed or industrial hemp, the state requires a license.

Bans, Fines & Penalties
However, the governor also signed bills that banned smokable hemp products. Also, the state won’t allow the sale of CBD in food and beverages, including alcoholic drinks. Louisiana clearly defines the fines that individuals can face if they violate the rules. Any person caught selling or possessing the illicit items faces up to $300 for the first offense. For the second, the penalty goes up to $1,000. Third and subsequent violations call for a fine up to $5,000.

If businesses don’t comply with these rules, regulators can issue stop orders, which could prevent them from doing business. These manufacturers would have up to 30 days to rectify the problem, or they could face some big-time penalties and fines.