Why SB132 is Not the Solution Alabama Needs
The Alabama Legislature is currently considering SB132, a bill that would ban hemp-derived cannabinoids, including products like Delta-8, Delta-9, and THCA. This bill threatens to shut down small businesses, eliminate jobs, and push consumers toward unregulated markets, all while failing to address the actual concerns surrounding hemp products.
LINK TO OUR INFO PAGE ON SB132
Rather than banning an entire industry, Alabama should focus on regulating hemp-derived cannabinoids to ensure safe access for consumers while preserving the economic benefits these products bring to the state. Here’s why SB132 is not the solution Alabama needs.
1. SB132 Would Destroy Alabama Small Businesses
The hemp industry in Alabama has grown significantly in recent years, creating thousands of jobs in farming, manufacturing, retail, and distribution. Small businesses—like locally owned hemp shops, wellness stores, and dispensaries—would be forced to close their doors overnight if this bill passes.
Instead of banning these products, Alabama lawmakers should work with industry experts to establish sensible regulations that protect consumers while allowing responsible businesses to continue operating.
2. A Ban Would Hurt the Economy
Hemp-derived cannabinoids contribute millions in tax revenue to the state. If SB132 passes, that money won’t disappear—it will simply go to other states where these products remain legal. Alabama businesses and farmers will lose revenue, and the state will forfeit tax dollars that could have funded education, infrastructure, and public safety.
Prohibition doesn’t stop demand; it just pushes money and jobs out of state.
3. Consumers Will Turn to the Black Market
One of the biggest concerns raised by opponents of hemp-derived cannabinoids is safety—and that’s exactly why a ban would be counterproductive.
If legal businesses are shut down, consumers won’t stop seeking these products. Instead, they will turn to unregulated sources, including online sellers and the black market, where there are no safety standards, no lab testing, and no way to verify product quality.
Regulation, not prohibition, is the best way to ensure consumer safety.
4. Hemp-Derived Cannabinoids Are Not the Same as Marijuana
A major misconception behind SB132 is that hemp-derived cannabinoids are the same as illegal marijuana. They are not.
Under the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp-derived cannabinoids like Delta-8 and compliant Delta-9 THC are federally legal as long as they come from hemp and contain less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC by dry weight. These products are already being tested and regulated by responsible businesses, ensuring they meet safety standards.
Instead of banning them, Alabama should focus on enforcing age restrictions, improving labeling requirements, and ensuring product transparency—just like we do with alcohol and tobacco.
5. SB132 Would Harm Medical & Wellness Consumers
Many Alabamians use hemp-derived cannabinoids for pain relief, anxiety, sleep support, and overall wellness. These products provide an alternative to pharmaceuticals, and many people depend on them for daily relief. Banning them would take away a legal, effective option that thousands of people rely on.
At the same time, Alabama already allows medical marijuana, recognizing the benefits of cannabis-derived compounds. It makes no sense to ban hemp-derived products while allowing medical cannabis to grow in the state. Instead, lawmakers should focus on reasonable regulations to ensure safe and legal access for those who need it.
The Right Path Forward: Regulation, Not Prohibition
Rather than an outright ban, Alabama should consider smart regulations to address concerns while allowing the industry to thrive. Some common-sense steps include:
✅ Age restrictions – Require all hemp-derived cannabinoid products to be sold only to customers 21 and older.
✅ Stronger labeling requirements – Ensure products clearly display THC content, serving sizes, and ingredient lists.
✅ Third-party lab testing – Continue requiring lab-tested products to verify potency and purity.
✅ Retail licensing – Ensure only licensed retailers can sell these products to maintain quality and accountability.
These measures protect consumers while keeping businesses open, jobs intact, and Alabama’s economy strong.
Take Action: Tell Alabama Lawmakers to Oppose SB132
The best way to fight SB132 is to make your voice heard. Contact your state legislators and let them know you oppose this harmful ban. Encourage them to work with industry professionals to create smart, balanced regulations instead of destroying a thriving industry.
🚨 Sign petitions, email lawmakers, and spread the word on social media. The future of Alabama’s hemp industry depends on it.
Final Thoughts
SB132 is not the solution Alabama needs. Banning hemp-derived cannabinoids would eliminate jobs, hurt small businesses, reduce tax revenue, and push consumers toward dangerous, unregulated alternatives. Instead, the state should focus on reasonable regulations that ensure safety, quality, and legal access for responsible consumers.
It’s time for Alabama to move forward with a solution that benefits everyone—not one that cripples an entire industry.
🚀 Support safe access. Support small businesses. Say NO to SB132.
