Bipartisan Bill Proposes Hemp Regulation, Reversing Trump’s Ban
Bipartisan lawmakers have introduced a new measure aimed at regulating hemp products in the United States. The Hemp Enforcement, Modernization, and Protection (HEMP) Act was put forth by House Subcommittee on Health Chairman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) and Representative Marc Veasey (D-TX). This legislation comes as a response to the restrictions imposed by a spending bill signed by former President Donald Trump, which included a ban on tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) products derived from hemp.
Details of the Hemp Regulation Proposal
The HEMP Act seeks to provide a comprehensive regulatory framework for consumable hemp products. This includes hemp-derived edibles, beverages, and inhalable products for adults aged 21 and older. The bill aims to clarify the legal status of these products in a market currently facing significant uncertainty.
Consumer Safety and Product Standards
The proposed legislation would enforce several consumer safety requirements:
- Product packaging must not appeal to youth and must be tamper-proof.
- Labels must display all cannabinoids present and include a QR code linked to a certificate of analysis.
- Manufacturers are banned from adding alcohol, caffeine, tobacco, nicotine, or melatonin to hemp products.
Furthermore, businesses will be required to register their facilities, and there will be manufacturing and testing standards in place.
THC Limits and Federal Oversight
Under the HEMP Act, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) will propose cannabinoid limits within 60 days of the bill’s enactment. If no specific regulations are established within three years, default limits will take effect:
| Product Type | Max THC Limits |
|---|---|
| Oral hemp products | 10mg/serving; 50mg/package |
| Inhalable products | 100mg/serving; 500mg/package |
| Topical products | 100mg/serving; 500mg/package |
| Intoxicating cannabinoid products | 5mg/serving; 30mg/package |
In addition, the legislation would grant the FDA the authority to mandate recalls of cannabinoid products and establish a Cannabinoid Hemp Products Advisory Committee.
Support from Industry Stakeholders
Industry leaders are expressing optimism about the HEMP Act. Jonathan Miller, general counsel at the U.S. Hemp Roundtable, praised Griffith for his commitment to regulating hemp products. He acknowledged that while the bill represents a significant step forward, more work is needed before its final passage.
The bipartisan nature of the bill signals broad recognition of the importance of hemp products, which have gained popularity among consumers. Notably, recent polls show that approximately 80% of marijuana consumers oppose the criminalization of hemp-derived THC products.
Future Implications for Hemp Legislation
As the legislation progresses, the agricultural and broader economic impacts must be considered. Stakeholders are hopeful that a balanced regulatory approach will foster both consumer safety and market stability. The new regulations could eventually redefine hemp, allowing Medicare recipients to access non-intoxicating CBD products.
In summary, the HEMP Act aims to bring structure to the hemp market by incorporating essential regulations while ensuring consumer safety. As discussions continue, the futures of hemp producers and consumers alike depend on lawmakers’ ability to find common ground in this evolving landscape.
