Alabama’s new hemp law was put to the test for the first time earlier this month with the arrest of Mary Noble in Athens on July 7.
Noble was taken into custody for allegedly possessing prohibited hemp products, including seven Delta-9 pre-rolls and a Delta THC vape pen.
She also faces charges of resisting arrest, attempting to elude authorities, and providing a false identity.
In 2023, Noble also faced charges for assault and burglary.
Yellowhammer News reported earlier that HB445, signed into law by Governor Kay Ivey, bans smokable hemp products outright and establishes strict regulations on other consumable hemp items.
RELATED: Alabama cracks down on hemp-derived THC sales with enactment of new law
The law, sponsored by State Rep. Andy Whitt (R-Harvest), prohibits sales to anyone under 21, bans online sales and shipments, and requires independent lab testing along with clear THC labeling.
Retailers must be licensed through the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board and face steep penalties for violations, including fines, felony charges for repeat offenses, and possible license suspension.
The law also imposes a 10% excise tax to help fund enforcement. Full implementation is set for January 2026, although the smokable hemp ban took effect July 1.
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
