Birmingham Leaders Warn: Alabama Hemp Bill Could Devastate Local Economy

Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin and local entrepreneurs are urging Governor Kay Ivey to veto Alabama House Bill 445, warning it could devastate the state’s hemp industry. The proposed legislation shifts regulatory authority to the Alabama Alcoholic Beverage Control Board and imposes strict rules and a 10% excise tax on consumable hemp products like delta-8 and delta-10 THC.Jenni Otwell, CEO of Magic City Organics, says the bill would force businesses like hers to shut down or leave the state. Critics argue the bill harms small businesses, reduces tax revenue, and pushes consumers toward unsafe, unregulated markets.“This bill doesn’t protect communities,” said Woodfin. “It destroys jobs and local economies.”Opponents are calling on Alabamians to contact the governor and demand a veto.