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H 478

INDUSTRIAL HEMP – Amends and adds to existing law to provide for the sale of industrial hemp products.

68th Legislature, 1st Regular Session (2025) Introduced by Kevin Andrus

House Bill H 478 mandates Idaho retail stores selling hemp products to obtain a $600 license, ensuring consumer safety through inspections and compliance with regulations.

Reported Printed; Filed in the Office of the Chief Clerk
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Bill Summary · H 478

Summary of House Bill H 478: Industrial Hemp

Purpose and Intent

House Bill H 478 aims to regulate the sale of industrial hemp products in Idaho by establishing a licensing system for retail stores. The legislation seeks to ensure oversight and compliance with state and federal laws regarding hemp-derived products, particularly focusing on consumer safety and product integrity.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several important provisions:

  1. Licensing Requirement:

    • All retail stores selling hemp products in Idaho must obtain a license from the Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA).
    • The annual license fee is set at $600. For businesses with multiple locations, a single license can cover all stores, with an additional fee of $25 for each extra location.

  2. Inspection Authority:

    • ISDA is authorized to conduct inspections of licensed retail stores to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
    • During inspections, ISDA may collect samples for off-site testing. License holders can request a retest of any sample within five days of receiving the initial test results, with the licensee responsible for all associated testing costs.

  3. Penalties for Non-Compliance:

    • Violations of the licensing provisions may result in civil penalties of up to $10,000 per offense, along with potential liability for reasonable attorney's fees.
    • Civil penalties can only be assessed after the individual has been notified and given an opportunity for a hearing.

  4. Rulemaking Authority:

    • ISDA may create rules to implement the provisions of this bill, subject to legislative approval through a negotiated rulemaking process.

Affected Parties

  • Retail Stores: All businesses selling hemp products in Idaho will be required to comply with the new licensing and inspection requirements.
  • Consumers: The legislation aims to protect consumers by ensuring that hemp products sold in the state meet safety and regulatory standards.
  • Idaho State Department of Agriculture: ISDA will be responsible for administering the licensing process and conducting inspections.

Timeline

  • Introduced: April 1, 2025
  • Effective Date: The provisions of this act will take effect on January 1, 2027.

Fiscal Impact

The licensing fees collected will contribute to a dedicated fund within ISDA to cover the costs of processing applications and conducting inspections. The bill is designed to have no additional expenditure from the state general fund.

Conclusion

House Bill H 478 represents a significant step in regulating the industrial hemp market in Idaho, establishing a framework for the legal sale of hemp products while ensuring consumer safety and compliance with existing laws.

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

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