Florida Advances Hemp Regulation Bills: What It Means for THC Retailers

17 April 2025

Lawmakers just advanced HB 7027 and HB 7029, two bills that will regulate and tax hemp-derived THC products like Delta-8 and Delta-10. If signed into law, these changes kick in January 1, 2026—and they’re anything but minor.

New Restrictions on Sales & Packaging

• Age 21+ only: No more hemp sales to anyone under 21.

• Potency caps: No more than 100mg of THC per day unless you have a medical marijuana card.

• Packaging crackdown: Must be plain, child-proof, and not appealing to kids.

• Retail limits: Only Department of Agriculture (DACS)-licensed food establishments can sell—gas stations and smoke shops may be out.

• Online orders? Still allowed, but now require age and ID verification at delivery.

15% Excise Tax Is Coming — and a Double Hit for Hemp Businesses

Under HB 7029, Florida will impose a 15% excise tax on all retail sales of hemp-derived THC products, stacking on top of existing state sales tax. This new tax is estimated to generate over $1.5 billion annually, with the first $6 million earmarked for product testing and enforcement.

But for many hemp retailers, this isn’t just another tax—it’s a one-two punch.

Businesses that rely on imported products like vape pens, cartridges, and other electronic devices—most of which are manufactured in China—are already grappling with steep tariffs reimposed under Trump-era trade policies. Add a 15% excise tax on top, and it’s a financial squeeze that could force smaller operators out of the market, or push up prices for consumers.

What It Means for Floridians

• Consumers: Expect higher prices, fewer purchase locations, and tighter THC limits.

• Retailers: Must register with the Department of Agriculture (DACS), file monthly electronic tax returns and** **track every sale, comply with lab testing rules, and keep records for *10 years*.

• Industry: Noncompliance means fines, audits, and possible jail time.

Why This Matters

Florida’s hemp industry is worth $1.5 billion. Lawmakers say these rules are about safety, accountability, and stopping sales to kids. Critics say they’ll crush small businesses and restrict access to wellness products.

Either way, Florida is setting the tone for hemp reform nationwide—and it’s starting with a hard line.

Stay tuned, Florida. The hemp game is changing fast.