Valerie Haber Featured in the South Florida Business Journal

MIAMI, FL – February 11, 2020 – GrayRobinson alcohol beverage attorney Valerie L. Haber, shareholder in the firm’s Miami law firm and Fort Lauderdale law firm offices, was featured in the South Florida Business Journal article, "CBD-Infused Drinks and Food Could Be the Way of the Future for Restaurants." The article discusses how CBD-infused food and beverage has gained tremendous popularity, however unclear laws and regulations have left some restaurateurs uneasy about incorporating these items in their menus. 

Haber mentions that the Florida Department of Agriculture has implemented a licensing process for businesses to carry CBD-infused food and products, for $650 per year, but the department only has jurisdiction over establishments like supermarkets and convenience stores, not restaurants and bars. The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) regulates restaurants and bars, but has no state-specific rules for CBD. Instead, it defers to the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) for the regulation of CBD, which in turn is deferred to the Food and Drug Administration. Haber points out the confusing nature of the regulation by stating, "Everyone is in a state of flux not knowing how to treat CBD food and beverage products." 

Haber concludes by warning businesses to be careful how they market their CBD products since the federal government has become very strict. For example, since the FDA has yet to prove CBD has any medicinal or therapeutic benefits, businesses are not allowed to speak of any such properties. Read the full article here. (subscription required)