Assembly Bill 504, aimed at regulating deceptive trade practices in the hemp market, received strong support during a recent Senate Committee on Commerce and Labor meeting. Advocates from the Nevada Cannabis Association and other industry representatives highlighted the urgent need for clearer regulations to protect consumers and ensure product safety.

Chelsea Caporo, representing the Nevada Cannabis Association, emphasized the confusion surrounding THC levels in hemp products, particularly as the 2018 Farm Bill redefined cannabis. She pointed out that without clear limits, products like edibles and drinks could contain intoxicating amounts of THC, posing risks to consumers. "This is a really small step to try and help curb some of this," Caporo stated, advocating for clearer signage to distinguish hemp products from cannabis.

Support for the bill was echoed by Harrison Bond of Deep Roots Harvest, who noted that consumer clarity could drive business to licensed establishments. Dan Musgrove from Thrive Cannabis Marketplace called the bill a vital consumer protection measure.

The bill received neutral feedback from the Cannabis Compliance Board and the Attorney General's office, both confident in their ability to enforce the proposed regulations without fiscal impact. The committee ultimately voted in favor of the bill, with Senator Rogich praising its potential to enhance consumer safety and industry integrity.

As the legislative session progresses, AB 504 stands as a significant step toward addressing the complexities of the hemp market in Nevada, aiming to create a safer environment for consumers and businesses alike.