Florida Hemp: Not So Sunny in the Sunshine State

Analyzing SB 1698: Impact on Florida’s Hemp Industry

Most people paying attention to the hemp industry, and particularly the hemp-derived products industry, have been focused on the state of Florida recently. The reasons for this are many, but chief among them is the fact that Senate Bill 1698 (SB 1698) passed out of the state legislature with overwhelming support. This bill (like the one passed last year) regulates hemp and hemp products in the name of protecting children. The difference, however, is that this year’s legislation will all but destroy Florida’s thriving hemp industry while leaving room for marijuana monopolies in the state. 

To be clear, Florida’s hemp industry is a multi-billion-dollar industry supporting all aspects of the supply chain. There are over 10,000 hemp businesses in the state and over 100,000 thousand employees who rely on hemp for their paychecks. Should SB 1698 pass into law, the future of hemp in Florida looks dark and stormy. 

2024 Provisions: Disrupting Effective Regulation

Depending on who you ask, the provisions of SB 1698 might reach too far in their efforts to protect children. Advertising restrictions, restricting sales to persons over the age of 21, and testing requirements are understandable, and many industry participants support such measures. All of the things mentioned in the previous sentence were enacted through last year’s legislation,  legislation that balanced market demand with consumer safety. This year’s changes, which take the form of milligram restrictions, bans on certain cannabinoids, additional marketing restrictions, and a revised definition of hemp, can be seen as protectionism. The issue, however, is who or what is truly being protected. 

With the specter of a recreational marijuana ballot initiative hanging in the Florida Supreme Court and a decision expected any day, some speculate that this year’s hemp changes are the result of marijuana trying to carve out additional market share over hemp. 

Your Voice Matters: Protecting Florida’s Hemp Industry

It is not all doom and gloom for the Sunshine State’s hemp market, however, as meaningful actions can still be taken to prevent this law from going into effect. SB 1698 has yet to make its way to Governor DeSantis’ desk for signature, and while time wears on, the best way to prevent this disastrous outcome is to write the Governor a letter urging him to veto SB 1698. Handwritten letters, like the ones our parents and grandparents used to send, are the most meaningful way to express your dissatisfaction with this legislation. Handwritten letters, addressed and mailed to the Governor are more impactful than you might imagine. Let the Governor know you want him to protect your hemp products, your businesses, employees, farmers and jobs. It might sound antiquated, but he’s listening, watching, and waiting. Do you part and write the Governor. 

Calling All Floridians: Writing to Governor DeSantis – Your Action Plan!

All Floridians impacted by SB1698, spanning consumers, business proprietors, advocates, and employees, must promptly communicate concerns to Florida State Governor DeSantis. Every letter counts, so don’t hesitate to make your voice heard!

Your step-by-step plan:

Step 1: Gather Your Thoughts

To draft your letter, consider how these proposed regulations will directly impact you, the Florida Hemp Industry, and its economy. Your objective is to urge Governor DeSantis to veto the bill. Personalize your letter by sharing your own experiences, concerns, and reasons for opposing SB 1698. 

Step 2: Craft Your Personalized Letter

Handwrite a personalized, clear, concise, and respectful letter to Governor DeSantis expressing your concerns about SB 1698 and urging him to veto the bill. 

Step 3: Include Your Contact Information

Provide your full name, address, and contact information at the end of your letter. This allows Governor DeSantis to respond to your concerns and keeps the lines of communication open.

Step 4: Send Your Letter to Governor DeSantis via USPS

Sending your letter through traditional mail ensures it reaches the Governor’s office promptly.

Mail to:

Office of Governor Ron DeSantis

State of Florida

The Capitol

400 S. Monroe St.

Tallahassee, FL 32399-0001

Step 6: Follow Up

After sending your letter, consider following up with the Governor’s office to ensure it was received. While a response is not guaranteed, following up demonstrates your commitment to the issue and reinforces the importance of your message.

MC Nutraceuticals: Your Partner in Navigating Evolving Hemp Legislation

Don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions regarding your letter, join the discussion, or find other ways to contribute to the well being of our industry during this legislative session. We are here to help!

Author: Philip Snow – Hemp Attorney – Experienced in advocating for the rights of Hemp businesses across the United States.

byPhilip Snow

As an attorney in the cannabis space since 2011, Philip dedicates most of his time utilizing his broad experience to help inform and drive sensible regulations and policy movement within the industry. Since starting with the nation's first marijuana only law firm and taking part in the passage of Colorado's historic Amendment 64, Philip has focused his efforts helping small businesses succeed amid rapidly evolving regulatory landscapes in the cannabis industry. More recently, Philip has focused his practice on the nascent hemp and cannabinoid industry. As a solutions-oriented attorney, he works with clients to comply with rules and regulations governing all aspects of the hemp supply chain. In addition to this, Philip regularly advises state legislators, state agencies, and Members of Congress on the drafting and creation of policies that balance consumer safety with market demand. His work builds upon existing foundations while advocating for responsibility and legitimacy within the hemp industry across the country.