A year after Gov. Ron DeSantis vetoed a bill on the issue, lawmakers again are considering proposals aimed at imposing strict regulations on the sale and production of euphoria-inducing hemp products.
This year’s legislation, however, also targets a new kind of buzz — beverages that include THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, the primary psychoactive component in cannabis that’s responsible for getting users high.
THC-infused beverages have mushroomed in popularity and can be sold in convenience stores, grocery stores and liquor stores. The drinks also are sold by retailers that specialize in hemp-derived products or can be purchased online.
As the 2025 legislative session approaches the midpoint Wednesday, House and Senate proposals seeking to impose strict regulations on consumable hemp-based products also address THC-infused drinks. Such beverages were not included in a wide-ranging 2024 measure that hemp retailers and growers strenuously opposed and which the governor vetoed.
This year’s Senate proposal (SB 438) would require THC-infused beverages to be distributed by alcohol wholesalers and sold by retailers and establishments that have liquor licenses. The plan, which is ready for a full Senate vote, also would cap the amount of THC in the drinks, which typically are seltzer-like, flavored beverages that do not contain alcohol.
