Hemp-regulation bill awaits Ivey’s decision amid public petition in opposition and industry debate

A controversial bill regulating hemp-derived products in Alabama is now in the hands of Governor Kay Ivey. House Bill 445, passed by the Legislature in early May, has drawn significant attention from small business owners, patients, and advocates, as well as support from law enforcement and legislators who say stronger regulations are needed.

Ivey may sign the bill, veto it, or allow it to become law without her signature. If she vetoes the legislation, it will be returned to the lawmakers. They may revise the bill or override the veto with a 51% vote. If they do not override the veto, it is likely dead.

Opponents of HB445 have launched a petition on Change.org, which has garnered more than 800 signatures as of mid-May. The petition claims the bill could economically harm communities.

Multiple petition signers shared personal accounts of how they rely on hemp-derived products. A veteran with PTSD described improvements in appetite, sleep, and digestion from using THC-A. A 61-year-old disabled business owner from Spanish Fort said her dispensaries are her only source of income and would likely close under the bill’s restrictions. A dispensary owner in Mobile said the bill would dismantle his supply chain and eliminate legal access for customers seeking alternative wellness options.

HB445 would implement broad restrictions on hemp-based consumables across Alabama, including:

Banning smokable hemp products
Limiting THC in edibles to 10mg per serving
Prohibiting online sales and delivery
Imposing a 10% excise tax
Requiring a $1,000 annual license for retailers
Introducing criminal penalties of up to 10 years in prison for non-compliance

Among those concerned are Joe Resha, CEO of Avondale Apothecary in Birmingham, and Ashley Otwell of Magic City Organics, who told news outlets that the bill would make it nearly impossible to stay in business despite their compliance with existing laws.

Abby Rice, speaking to FOX10 News, said that hemp-derived products have allowed her to manage rheumatoid arthritis and anxiety without relying on potentially harmful medications.

Supporters of HB445 have defended the bill as a necessary regulatory update. Rep. Andy Whitt (R-Harvest), the bill’s sponsor, told the Alabama Reflector that unregulated hemp-derived products are being sold to minors in convenience stores and that the state needs to establish safeguards.

Law enforcement agencies backing the bill have pointed to lab results showing some retail products exceed the legal THC threshold of 0.3%. As reported, proponents believe HB445 is an overdue response to the growing availability of intoxicating hemp products marketed to children.

The bill would also transfer regulatory oversight to the Alabama Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) Board, with enforcement set to begin on January 1, 2026, according to BillTrack50.

Sherri Blevins is a writer for Mountain Valley News and a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].