In a surprising turn, the U.S. federal government has inserted into the spending bill to end the recent shutdown a provision aimed at banning most hemp‑derived THC beverages and consumables. Under the new rule, products made from Cannabis sativa that exceed 0.4 milligrams of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) per container will no longer qualify as legal hemp derivatives.
This move comes after years of legal ambiguity following the 2018 Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018 (commonly known as the “Farm Bill”), which legalized hemp containing up to 0.3 % Δ‑9 THC by dry weight—but left open how that would apply to edibles and drinks. These products — from seltzers to gummies — had proliferated nationwide, capitalizing on the loophole to sell intoxicating “hemp” goods, often outside the regulatory frameworks governing traditional cannabis.
Industry groups say the new regulation is devastating. The U.S. Hemp Roundtable warns that more than 95 % of existing hemp‑derived THC products will be illegal under the threshold, placing thousands of farmers, processors, and retailers at risk. Meanwhile, states such as Rhode Island and Minnesota are scrambling as local hemp businesses face seismic uncertainty.
Supporters of the crackdown argue the move is necessary to protect public health and tighten controls around mood‑altering substances being sold in gas stations and convenience stores. Critics counter that this amounts to prohibition and will push consumers into unregulated black‑markets.
The new limits won’t take full effect until roughly one year after enactment, giving the affected industry a narrow window to adapt or lobby for new regulatory frameworks.
Sources:
Disclaimer
Artificial Intelligence Disclosure & Legal Disclaimer
AI Content Policy.
To provide our readers with timely and comprehensive coverage, South Florida Reporter uses artificial intelligence (AI) to assist in producing certain articles and visual content.
Articles: AI may be used to assist in research, structural drafting, or data analysis. All AI-assisted text is reviewed and edited by our team to ensure accuracy and adherence to our editorial standards.
Images: Any imagery generated or significantly altered by AI is clearly marked with a disclaimer or watermark to distinguish it from traditional photography or editorial illustrations.
General Disclaimer
The information contained in South Florida Reporter is for general information purposes only.
South Florida Reporter assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions in the contents of the Service. In no event shall South Florida Reporter be liable for any special, direct, indirect, consequential, or incidental damages or any damages whatsoever, whether in an action of contract, negligence or other tort, arising out of or in connection with the use of the Service or the contents of the Service.
The Company reserves the right to make additions, deletions, or modifications to the contents of the Service at any time without prior notice. The Company does not warrant that the Service is free of viruses or other harmful components.
