The Mobile City Council has approved a new ordinance permitting the sale of consumable hemp products within city limits. The measure passed unanimously, establishing a local approval process for businesses seeking to sell hemp products after a period of uncertainty stemming from recent state regulations.

New State Regulations Prompted Local Action

Alabama law, which went into effect earlier this year, requires hemp retailers to meet stricter standards and obtain approval from both the state and their local government. This created a backlog, leaving many businesses unable to legally operate while awaiting local ordinances. The new ordinance addresses this issue by providing a clear path forward.

Ordinance Mirrors Alcohol Licensing Process

The approved ordinance establishes a system similar to alcohol licensing, requiring businesses to first obtain city approval before seeking final authorization from the state. Councilmember Josh Woods explained, “It’s going to follow the same process as an ABC license,” adding that this allows city leaders to regularly review businesses entering their districts.

Concerns About Store Location and Concentration

During council discussions, some members expressed concerns about the potential location of hemp retailers. Councilmember Ben Reynolds voiced worries about vacant storefronts quickly becoming hemp shops and emphasized the need for the city to carefully evaluate locations before approval.

Reynolds also highlighted the importance of preventing an overconcentration of stores, stating, “We don’t want to see a situation where shops start popping up on every corner,” and that protections are needed to safeguard the community in the long term.

Applications to Begin Soon

City officials anticipate that applications under the new ordinance will begin to be processed soon. This could potentially allow some businesses to reopen in the coming weeks, bringing clarity and legality to the local hemp market.

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