On Friday May 3rd, the Florida Senate voted unanimously to pass a bill to establish a regulatory framework for hemp, sending the measure Gov. Ron DeSantis for his signature.

Florida Senators unanimously passed HB 333 after the House passed the same measure Wednesday. The bill is similar to FL SB 1020, which the Senate also unanimously approved last week. The House made one change to the Senate bill to open any potential pilot research programs to universities and colleges with agricultural programs. To view details on HB 333, click here.

The Senate bill was sponsored by state Sen. Rob Bradley (R-Fleming Island) who approved the House change. The measure directs the state Department of Agriculture to begin drafting rules for industry licensing, quality-control standards, and security procedures. The measure also creates an advisory council, primarily to educate communities on the plant and how it is different from marijuana.

State Agriculture Commissioner Nikki Fried who has been a strong supporter of hemp farming was on hand to observe the vote.

We congratulate the many activists, business owners and farmers who have worked to help pass this important legislation. We want to say special thanks to Bob Clayton who has worked tirelessly to bring hemp back in Florida for a number of years.