New Cannabis and Hemp Laws Take Effect Today Across Multiple States

OG article by Anthony Martinelli

January 1, 2026

On January 1, 2026, new cannabis and hemp laws took effect across multiple U.S. states, emphasizing enhanced regulation and oversight. In Alabama, a comprehensive system for consumable hemp products mandates statewide licensing, testing, labeling, THC limits per serving and package, child-resistant packaging, and restricts sales to licensed in-person retail only, banning online, delivery, and vending; a 10% retail excise tax was also introduced. Tennessee shifted oversight of hemp-derived cannabinoids to the Alcoholic Beverage Commission, requiring retailer licensing and 21+ age restriction, redefining total THC to include THCA (banning high-THCA products), prohibiting online/mail-order sales, adding new licensing and compliance rules, and restructuring taxes. California's changes prohibit hemp extracts in foods, beverages, or supplements unless ultra-refined with no detectable THC or synthetics, limiting products to isolates, strengthening enforcement, and narrowing distinctions from marijuana. Washington State's cannabis updates under SB 5403 cap retail licenses per individual or group at five, banning linked operations with potential forfeiture, while SB 5206 expands exterior signs to four (excluding small ones) and clarifies advertising rules. Kentucky regulates THC beverages like alcohol, limiting to 5 mg per container, restricting sales to licensed alcohol retailers, and banning at unlicensed venues. Michigan imposed a 24% excise tax on wholesale marijuana transfers, ranking second highest behind Washington's 37%. These measures reflect a broader trend toward tighter controls on hemp and cannabis markets.