The hemp ban
Last weekend, Congress passed—and the President signed—new language that changes the current federal definition of hemp. Under the bill, finished consumer products will be limited to 0.4mg total THC per item, and restrictions will apply to synthetically converted cannabinoids. There is a one-year transition period before enforcement begins.
Senator Rand Paul introduced an amendment that could have removed this language and kept the door open for more discussion, but it did not pass. It’s disappointing, but it’s also not the end of the conversation.
Here’s what matters now: there is still time and there is still room to influence how this is ultimately shaped and implemented. Many of the details will fall to federal agencies, and those conversations haven’t happened yet.
What SōRSE is doing
At SōRSE, we support clear, science-led regulation that protects consumers, requires responsible product development, and gives legitimate operators a path forward. We’re working with industry partners—including the National Hemp Association, the Coalition for Adult Beverage Alternatives (CABA), and the Hemp Beverage Alliance—on a thoughtful federal framework that addresses safety, consistency, age-gating, and labeling standards.
How to get involved
If you want to stay connected or get involved, here are a few things that help:
- Stay close to trusted sources—regulatory updates will move quickly
- If you have lobby, policy, or alcohol-regulatory contacts, engage them
- Encourage conversations centered on safety, standards, and responsible access
- Ask questions; don’t make assumptions
This news is serious, but it’s not a reason to shut down or panic. There is a full year to work on a solution, and people on both sides of the aisle recognize the need for clarity, not chaos. SōRSE will continue sharing updates, guidance, and options as more information becomes available.
If you want to talk through what this could mean for you, reach out or leave a comment below. We’re here, and we’re not going anywhere.
