Alabama’s Smokable Hemp Ban Set to Begin July 1, 2025
MONTGOMERY, AL — Confusion surrounds the implementation of House Bill 445, which was signed into law by Governor Kay Ivey in May, imposing significant restrictions on Alabama’s hemp and CBD industry. The legislation, which bans the sale and possession of smokable hemp products, has sparked questions over its effective date.
While the bill states it will become effective on July 1, 2025, provisions related to the licensing of consumable hemp manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers will take effect on January 1, 2026. However, the Alabama Attorney General’s Office recently confirmed that the smokable hemp ban will be enforced starting July 1, 2025.
The Attorney General’s spokesperson clarified that the ban encompasses products marketed as hemp cigarettes, cigars, and similar items. Violators could face severe penalties, including prosecution for a Class C felony, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and fines up to $15,000. This punishment contrasts sharply with the lighter penalties for possession of personal-use marijuana, which is classified as a Class A misdemeanor.
The quick timeline from the bill’s signing to its implementation raises concerns about the Alabama Alcoholic Beverage Control Board’s ability to enforce these new regulations. Some provisions were designed to provide licensed hemp retailers adequate time to meet compliance requirements; thus, the discrepancy has left many uncertain about the regulatory process.
As the Alabama ABC Board awaits further guidance from the Attorney General’s office on administering these new policies, stakeholders in the hemp industry are left navigating a challenging and rapidly evolving legal landscape. Further clarification from the Attorney General’s office is pending.
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