States Propose New Regulations on Hemp Products

In Ohio, a bill aimed at restricting the sale of intoxicating hemp products, such as Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC, is unlikely to pass before the legislative session ends, with Gov. Mike DeWine advocating for a sales ban to protect minors. Meanwhile, Missouri's hemp industry is divided over proposed legislation to regulate intoxicating hemp products, with calls for age restrictions and testing requirements instead of outright bans. In Illinois, Gov. J.B. Pritzker supports legislation to regulate hemp products similarly to cannabis, citing consumer safety concerns, but faces pushback from the hemp industry, which fears the regulations could harm small businesses. As states grapple with the regulation of hemp-derived cannabinoids, the balance between consumer protection and industry viability remains contentious. The developments highlight a growing trend among states to confront the unregulated market of intoxicating hemp products, which often lack consistent oversight.