An amendment has been added to the 2024 Farm Bill draft that would ban hemp-derived and synthesized cannabinoid products. The Farm, Food and National Security Act of 2024 (Farm Bill) passed out of the House Agriculture Committee by a vote of 33-21 on Friday and now faces final passage in the House.
Rep. Mary Miller (R-Illinois) filed the amendment, which she says “was included to close the loophole that has allowed drug-infused THC products like delta-8 to be sold to teenagers in packaging that looks like candy. We must stop teenagers and children from being exposed to addictive and harmful drugs.”
The amendment seeks to redefine hemp to “only include naturally occurring, naturally derived, and non-intoxicating cannabinoids" and would restrict hemp-derived THC to be included in the final bill.
According to the Food and Drug Administration delta-8 THC is one of more than 100 cannabinoids produced in the cannabis sativa plant but is not found naturally in significant amounts.It has not been evaluated or approved by the FDA for safe use in any context, including when added to food, the agency said.
Regulating these products is also taking place on the state level, including Illinois and Connecticut.
On Sunday the Illinois Senate passed House Bill 4293 to regulate hemp derived THC, including delta-8 products.
“I am proud of the diligent steps we have taken to protect consumers of all ages, help our cannabis industry flourish, keep the promise to our social equity communities, and not stifle reputable hemp business establishments,” said Sen. Kimberly A. Lightford (D-Maywood). “Effective regulation is about safeguarding public health and fostering a sustainable, trustworthy market.”
And in March, Connecticut Attorney General William Tong and Consumer Protection Commissioner Bryan Cafferelli launched a public service announcement regarding illegal, unsafe cannabis edibles made to look like common kid-friendly snacks.
Members help make our journalism possible. Become a CSP member today and unlock exclusive benefits, including unlimited access to all of our content. Sign up here.