By Scout Nelson
The U.S. Senate is preparing to consider legislation that delays the planned national ban on most hemp-derived THC products until December 11. The original federal ban was scheduled to take effect in November, but the proposed delay gives lawmakers additional time to negotiate a long-term solution for the hemp industry.
U.S. Senator Tina Smith welcomed the proposal, saying the additional time is important for producers, businesses, and consumers. The delay is included in a continuing budget resolution that will help fund the federal government while lawmakers continue discussions.
"Adults should be allowed to have a THC beverage if they so choose. Minnesota has created one of the strongest, most carefully regulated systems in the country to allow the sale of hemp products. The initial ban set to take place was ill-advised and would have hurt both hemp farmers and Minnesota breweries alike," said Senator Smith. "I’m grateful Senator Klobuchar and I were able to secure bipartisan language to delay this ban to December 11. While helpful to hemp farmers, brewers, and consumers, we still need to work towards a long-term solution that will allow for the industry to move forward."
Minnesota has developed a regulated hemp market that allows the sale of hemp-derived THC products under state rules.
Senator Smith partnered with Senator Amy Klobuchar and Senator Rand Paul to seek bipartisan support for delaying the federal ban. Their effort resulted in language being added to the government funding measure, which is expected to receive a Senate vote later this week.
The proposal also receives support from the Minnesota Craft Brewers Association, which says the delay provides greater certainty for breweries that produce hemp-derived THC beverages.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-fatcamera
Categories: Minnesota, Government & Policy