DeSantis vetoes Florida bill that would ban delta-8, other hemp products

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has vetoed a controversial bill that sought to ban delta-8 and other hemp products, keeping these items available for consumer use. The bill, known as SB 1698, faced major pushback from the public, with over 13,000 communications to the governor's office urging him to veto the legislation. DeSantis's veto was largely influenced by concerns that the bill would impose severe regulatory burdens on small businesses, potentially leading to significant job losses in the state. In his veto letter, he pointed out that sound regulation is essential for ensuring public health and safety while allowing the hemp industry to thrive. A study commissioned by a hemp trade group revealed that Florida's hemp market generated more than $10 billion in sales and employed over 100,000 people in 2022.

DeSantis has called for the legislature to return to this matter in the next session, focusing on quality control and product packaging requirements. The decision highlights the growing significance of the hemp industry in Florida and the need for balanced regulation. This outcome is a pivotal moment for consumers and businesses invested in the state's hemp market.