1. United States
2. Ala.
3. Letter

Vote No on Senate Bill 132 to Protect Hemp Industry and Consumers in Alabama Senate Bill 132 aims to criminalize hemp-derived THC products like Delta 8, Delta 9, and Delta 10 by reclassifying them as Schedule 1 drugs. This move would effectively ban the sale of these legal hemp products, which are derived from the same plant as CBD. The proposed ban raises significant concerns for Alabama's hemp businesses and consumers. Local CBD business owners like Sonya Lowery warn that 90% of their products would become illegal under this bill, forcing them to close their operations. These retailers responsibly sell to adults over 21 and provide safe, legal alternatives to pharmaceuticals and alcoholic products. Consumers like Janell Colburn rely on hemp products for relief from issues like menopause symptoms when other options are unsuitable or unaffordable. Banning these products would deprive Alabamians of access to natural, non-addictive remedies aligning with their healthcare needs and values. Furthermore, there is no evidence that hemp-derived products carry a high potential for abuse to warrant such harsh criminalization. These cannabinoids are chemically distinct from marijuana and do not produce the same intoxicating effects. Rather than rushing to ban a thriving industry, a more prudent approach would involve implementing reasonable product testing and labeling standards to ensure safety and transparency for consumers. An outright prohibition ignores the rights of responsible businesses and individuals to access legal hemp goods. I urge you to consider the severe economic and public health ramifications of Senate Bill 132. Please vote no on this misguided legislation to protect Alabama's hemp industry and uphold consumer access to these beneficial products.