SB 478 Advances: Indiana Moves Closer to Delta-8 THC Regulation

9 April 2025

Indiana lawmakers are closer than ever to setting statewide rules for hemp-derived delta-8 THC products.

Senate Bill 478 passed its third House committee on April 9 and now heads to the House floor. The bill would create licensing requirements, impose age restrictions, mandate product testing, and limit where delta-8 products can be sold — all enforced by the Indiana Alcohol and Tobacco Commission (ATC).

Under the bill, in-state sales would be restricted to licensed convenience stores and small retailers. Large grocery stores and pharmacies would be excluded. Only adults 21 and older could purchase, and driving under the influence would be explicitly banned.

Who’s Affected:

• Consumers would get safer, tested products but see fewer places to buy them.
• Small retailers could benefit as authorized sellers but must comply with new rules.
• Large stores would be barred from selling delta-8.
• Law enforcement and regulators would gain tools to oversee the growing market.

Delta-8 has filled a legal gray area in Indiana, raising concerns about youth access and public safety. Lawmakers are now working quickly to avoid another legislative deadlock before the session ends.