TO ESTABLISH THE ARKANSAS HEMP BEVERAGE ACT.

House Bill 1578 establishes the Arkansas Hemp Beverage Act, creating a regulatory framework for hemp-based beverages within the state's Alcoholic Beverage Control Division. It requires manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers of these beverages to obtain permits and integrate into the existing three-tier system for alcoholic beverages. The bill sets product standards, including a maximum delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol content of 0.3% on a dry-weight basis, mandatory independent lab testing, and specific labeling requirements. Sales of hemp-based beverages are restricted to individuals 21 years of age or older, and the ABC Division is authorized to enforce these provisions through inspections and penalties.