WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 1578

CRIM CD-DOMESTIC ASSAULT

104th Regular Session Introduced by Amy Grant and 1 co-sponsor

HB 1578 regulates hemp-based beverages in Arkansas, ensuring safety and compliance while allowing sales to adults 21+ through a structured distribution system.

Added Chief Co-Sponsor Rep. Amy L. Grant
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1578

Summary of HB 1578: Arkansas Hemp Beverage Act

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1578, titled the Arkansas Hemp Beverage Act, was introduced to establish a regulatory framework for hemp-based beverages in Arkansas. The bill aimed to integrate these products into the existing alcohol distribution system while ensuring public safety and compliance with state and federal laws.

Key Provisions

The bill proposed several important provisions regarding the manufacture, distribution, and sale of hemp-based beverages:

Definitions

  • Hemp-based Beverage: A liquid product for human consumption containing hemp-derived cannabinoids, compliant with the federal Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018.
  • Delta-9 Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) Limit: Products must not exceed 0.3% THC on a dry-weight basis.

Regulatory Framework

  • Permits: The Alcoholic Beverage Control Division (ABC) would issue permits to manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers of hemp-based beverages.
  • Compliance: Manufacturers must provide proof of compliance with state and federal laws, submit a certificate of analysis for each product batch, and ensure food safety compliance.
  • Labeling Requirements: Products must include:
    • A QR code linking to the certificate of analysis.
    • THC and cannabidiol content per serving.
    • Batch number and expiration date.
    • Labels must not appeal to children or resemble alcoholic beverages or candy.

Sales and Distribution

  • Age Restriction: Hemp-based beverages may only be sold to individuals aged 21 and older.
  • Three-Tier System: The bill maintained the three-tier system for alcoholic beverages, requiring wholesalers to purchase from licensed manufacturers and sell only to licensed retailers.

Enforcement and Penalties

  • ABC would conduct routine inspections and audits to ensure compliance, with penalties for violations including stop-sale orders and confiscation of non-compliant products.

Rulemaking

  • ABC was tasked with promulgating rules to implement licensing procedures, product testing standards, and recordkeeping requirements.

Impact

  • Manufacturers: In-state manufacturers would need to obtain permits and comply with strict regulations. Out-of-state manufacturers must hold permits from their home states.
  • Wholesalers and Retailers: Both would require licenses and must adhere to the established distribution framework.
  • Public Safety: The bill aimed to ensure that hemp-based beverages are safe for consumption and properly regulated.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced: February 25, 2025
  • Status: The bill died in the House Committee at Sine Die adjournment on May 5, 2025, meaning it did not progress to a vote.

Conclusion

While HB 1578 sought to create a structured approach to the regulation of hemp-based beverages in Arkansas, it ultimately did not advance through the legislative process. The proposed framework aimed to balance economic opportunity with public safety and regulatory compliance.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.