Louisiana Legislature Sends Bill Restricting Minors at Hemp-Focused Businesses to Governor

The Louisiana House has approved legislation that would expand an existing restriction on minors at certain alcohol-licensed businesses to include locations where consumable hemp products are a main part of the business.

Senate Bill 510, sponsored by State Senator Jay Morris (R), previously passed the Senate in a 38 to 0 vote. With House passage, the measure is now positioned to be sent to Governor Jeff Landry.

Under current law, holders of retail alcohol permits, along with their agents, employees and representatives, are barred from intentionally enticing, aiding or allowing anyone under 18 to visit or loiter in places where alcoholic beverages or beer are the principal commodities sold, handled or given away.

SB 510 would keep that law in place while adding consumable hemp products to the restriction. This means the prohibition would also apply to alcohol-licensed establishments where consumable hemp products are the principal commodities sold, handled or given away.

The bill does not appear to apply to every store or restaurant that sells hemp products. Instead, the language is focused on places where alcohol, beer or consumable hemp products are the principal commodities.

The proposal also maintains an existing exception for certain events hosted by religious or charitable organizations with 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status, or fraternal beneficiary societies with 501(c)(8) status. Minors would still be allowed on the premises for those functions, as long as alcoholic beverages are not sold, handled, given away or accessible while they are present.

If signed into law, the measure would take effect August 1.