Cannabis: cannabinoids: industrial hemp.

Assembly Member Aguiar-Curry's comprehensive cannabis regulation bill establishes new requirements for industrial hemp products and strengthens oversight of the cannabis market in California. The legislation creates stricter standards for hemp-derived products, implements expanded testing protocols, and enhances enforcement mechanisms across the supply chain.

Beginning January 1, 2026, industrial hemp raw extract must achieve a minimum 99 percent purity level and contain no tetrahydrocannabinols or synthetic cannabinoids to be incorporated into food, beverages, or dietary supplements. The bill prohibits the sale of hemp flower and hemp pre-rolls for consumption within California.

The measure subjects industrial hemp entering the licensed cannabis market to the same regulatory requirements as cannabis products, including track-and-trace monitoring, security protocols, quality testing, and marketing restrictions. Licensed manufacturers are temporarily permitted to use cannabis-derived concentrates and extracts through January 1, 2028, while being prohibited from handling industrial hemp except under specific circumstances.

New enforcement provisions authorize state agencies to inspect, seize, and destroy non-compliant cannabis products. The bill expands the definition of cannabis products subject to excise tax and establishes penalties for products presumed to be cannabis sold outside the licensed market. Retailers selling both tobacco and cannabis face license suspension or revocation.

The legislation implements a phased timeline, with key provisions taking effect in 2026 and 2028. Local jurisdictions retain authority over cannabis business zoning and operations while state agencies gain enhanced enforcement capabilities. The measure requires no reimbursement to local agencies as the new requirements relate to crime definition and enforcement.