News

Florida's hemp industry generates over $1 billion annually and serves approximately 22 million consumers, supporting thousands of small retailers across the state. Fair regulations are essential to protect this growing economic driver from corporate consolidation while ensuring continued consumer access to science-backed hemp products.

Since legalization, hemp has emerged as a serious economic driver for Florida. Once viewed as an experimental crop, hemp now supports thousands of livelihoods, contributes billions of dollars to the state economy, and promises a diversified future beyond CBD. As the industry enters 2025, the stakes have never been higher.

For many veterans across Florida, hemp is more than a crop — it’s a second chance. As restrictive legislation threatens to dismantle the industry, we’re spotlighting the real stories of healing, purpose, and opportunity that hemp provides to those who’ve served.

Florida’s hemp industry has become a beacon of economic growth, innovation, and alternative wellness—but that progress is now at risk. As regulatory pressure increases, thousands of jobs and consumer freedoms hang in the balance. Here’s what’s happening behind the scenes and why it matters more than ever.

In just the first week of Florida’s “Operation Safe Summer,” Commissioner Wilton Simpson’s hemp oversight initiative led to the removal of nearly 11,000 hemp product packages for failing child‑protection standards—marking a major push to protect kids from inappropriate packaging and labeling.

Florida hemp businesses must comply with updated labeling, packaging, and marketing rules for consumable hemp products by June 16, 2025. Learn what’s changing and how to stay compliant under the new FDACS enforcement.

The Florida House of Representatives has formed a Combined Workgroup on Hemp to review upcoming legislation and discuss the future of hemp regulation in Florida. This could have a major impact on farmers, retailers, and consumers. What do you think about this initiative? Join the conversation and share your thoughts!

Representative Hillary Cassel is standing up for Florida’s small businesses and the hemp industry with HB 601, a bill that aligns with Governor DeSantis’ veto recommendations. This legislation ensures responsible regulation without crippling the industry, safeguarding small businesses while promoting consumer safety.

Florida's hemp industry is set to thrive by 2025, with opportunities in diversified products like hemp fiber, improved supply chain infrastructure, evolving regulations, and sustainable farming practices. Collaboration among farmers, investors, and policymakers will shape a connected, eco-conscious community, positioning Florida as a leader in hemp innovation and economic growth. The time to act is now.