Psychoactive cannabinoids in hemp; regulate under Alcoholic Beverage Control Board; hemp beverages and psychoactive hemp products defined; licensure required; penalties imposed for violations

SB 237 proposes to regulate psychoactive cannabinoids found in hemp products, placing them under the oversight of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board. It would treat "hemp beverages" like beer or wine, requiring licenses for manufacturing, distribution, and retail sale, establishing labeling and testing standards, and levying a 10% excise tax. Other "psychoactive hemp products" would be regulated similarly to tobacco, requiring retailer permits and adhering to specific labeling and advertising rules. The bill also prohibits the sale of all consumable hemp derivatives to individuals under 21 years of age, bans smokable hemp products statewide, and establishes penalties for violations.