UPDATE: The Hawaii Department of Health has just announced an urgent initiative urging all hemp product retailers to register ahead of new state regulations set to take effect on January 1, 2026. This move aims to enhance consumer safety and transparency in Hawaii’s hemp marketplace, a vital step for public health as the industry evolves.
Starting in 2026, businesses selling consumable hemp products—both local and out-of-state—must register with the DOH under Act 269, signed into law on July 2. A registration fee of $50 will cover a five-year period, with the online application becoming available on the DOH website in January. Currently, the DOH lacks data on the number of hemp businesses operating in Hawaii, raising concerns over product compliance with state standards for testing, labeling, and THC content.
The new registration system is critical for protecting consumers. A manager at Hempire-co Hawaii in downtown Hilo expressed optimism about the regulations, stating, “For the people that are legit, everything is fine now. We can stay in business. That’s the main thing.” However, he noted the uncertainty surrounding the psychoactive properties of some hemp-derived products, indicating a careful approach is necessary.
To prepare businesses for these upcoming requirements, the DOH plans extensive outreach and education throughout 2025. A grace period will follow the January 2026 implementation date, allowing businesses time to register before enforcement begins. However, those failing to comply could face serious repercussions, including fines of up to $10,000 per violation, cease-and-desist orders, and possible product seizures.
The Office of Medical Cannabis Control and Regulation is actively engaging with the hemp industry, having already sent informational emails regarding compliance and hosted a zoom session on November 10. More educational sessions, feedback opportunities, and detailed compliance guidance are slated for the months leading up to the implementation.
The urgency of this initiative cannot be understated; noncompliance may lead to significant fines and operational risks for hemp businesses. Property owners may also face legal actions if tenants violate registration requirements.
For businesses seeking more information, visit the DOH’s hemp program website at health.hawaii.gov/hempprogram. This is a crucial moment for the hemp industry in Hawaii—retailers must act quickly to ensure compliance and protect their businesses. Stay informed and prepared as these developments unfold.
