COLUMBIA, S.C. (WTOC) – South Carolina lawmakers this week discussed what’s called the Consumable Hemp Licensing and Regulation Act, which would change how products like CBD are made, sold, and even who can buy them.
The bill would require anyone producing, manufacturing, or selling hemp-derived consumables to obtain a state license. Customers would also need to be at least 21 years old to purchase these products.
Additionally, all products would also have to undergo independent lab testing to ensure safety and meet specific labeling requirements. A 2% excise tax would also be added to retail sales.
While some lawmakers see this bill as a necessary step, others argue that its restrictions on THC concentrations go too far.
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“I sit here and think about the hypocrisy that someone can go and consume as much as they want of a legal substance—whether it be bourbon, vodka—-that is extremely harmful, go out commit horrible, heinous crimes and here we have an extract from a legal plant, and we’re acting like the sky is falling,” said Rep. Seth Rose.
If passed, businesses would have until July 1 to comply with the new licensing requirements.
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