California Governor Proposes Emergency Ban on THC in Hemp Products

LOS ANGELES- California Governor Gavin Newsom announced emergency regulations on Friday that would prohibit the sale of hemp products containing detectable levels of THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis. The move aims to address concerns over the availability of intoxicating hemp products, especially those accessible to minors. Hemp products are currently sold outside of regulated cannabis markets, including in gas stations and online.

The emergency rules, which still require approval from the California Office of Administrative Law, would mandate that hemp products sold in the state contain no detectable THC and restrict sales to consumers aged 21 and older. Newsom emphasized the need to protect children from unregulated cannabis and hemp products, stating, “We’re taking action to close loopholes and increase enforcement to prevent children from accessing these dangerous hemp and cannabis products.”

The hemp industry, which has grown rapidly due to looser regulations compared to the cannabis market, faces a significant challenge under the proposed rules. Many California cannabis companies have transitioned to producing hemp products due to lower costs and fewer restrictions. Industry groups, including the California Cannabis Industry Association, expressed support for the new regulations, citing the need for a safer and more transparent marketplace. However, the U.S. Hemp Roundtable has criticized the rules, warning that they could devastate hemp farmers and businesses in the state.

If approved, the regulations would require retailers to remove THC-containing hemp products from shelves and impose strict enforcement measures.