“Smoke-Out” Protest Erupts on Alabama Capitol Steps as Lawmakers Target Hemp

Alabama activists lit up in a bold protest after the state legislature
passed HB 445—slated to ban smokable hemp and high-potency gummies.

*Triggering the protest*

On June 28, hemp advocates gathered at the Alabama State Capitol in
Montgomery to openly smoke legal hemp products. The move was a direct
response to HB 445, a new bill designed to prohibit smokable hemp and
potent edible forms starting this fall. It was timed for 4:20 p.m., nodding
to cannabis culture.

*Symbolic smoke-out*

The event was peaceful but unequivocal. Demonstrators lit joints and vapes
right on the Capitol steps to dramatize the impact of the upcoming ban. It
drew attention locally and online, sparking conversation across social
media. ()

*What HB 445 entails*

HB 445 would outlaw smokable hemp flower and concentrates, alongside
gummies exceeding certain THC levels. While medical cannabis remains legal,
recreational use—even of legal hemp—would face new restrictions.

*Public opinion and industry concerns*

While broader cannabis is illegal in Alabama—with only limited medical
access—this new law blocks legal hemp advocates from using low-THC
products. Critics argue it’s a step backward, infringing on personal
liberties and threatening nascent hemp businesses. ()

*Next steps and legal backdrop*

HB 445 now heads to the governor’s desk for expected signature before
implementation. Affected stakeholders—including farmers, retailers, and
consumers—may pursue legal challenges, citing medical marijuana legislation
and recent trends toward hemp normalization.

The post “Smoke-Out” Protest Erupts on Alabama Capitol Steps as Lawmakers
Target Hemp appeared first on Merry Jane.