CA SB153

Revises California's industrial hemp regulations to align with federal requirements under the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, including submission of a state plan to the U.S. Department of Agriculture by May 1, 2020.

Expands registration requirements to include growers of hemp for both commercial and noncommercial purposes, established agricultural research institutions, and hemp breeders, with annual registration and renewal fees deposited into the Department of Food and Agriculture Fund.

Establishes enforcement procedures distinguishing between negligent violations (subject to corrective action plans and potential 5-year ineligibility after three violations in 5 years) and intentional/reckless violations (reported to state and federal attorneys general).

Requires eligible participants to pass THC testing at or below 0.3 percent on a dry-weight basis before harvest, with specific procedures for sampling, laboratory testing, and destruction of non-compliant crops.

Prohibits persons convicted of controlled substance felonies within 10 years prior and those who materially falsify program applications from participating in the industrial hemp program; increases Industrial Hemp Advisory Board membership from 7 to 13 members with expanded industry and research representation.