Bill advances
Congress moves to delay the federal hemp THC ban as bipartisan lawmakers demand a longer timeline.
The House approved a Senate‑passed funding bill that pushes the effective date of most hemp product ban provisions to December 11, except for synthetic cannabinoids.
Key statements
Sen. Tim Sheehy (R‑MT) said his state’s strong hemp industry and veterans’ need for alternatives to opioids make the delay essential.
“We’re supporting this industry because it’s critical to our farmers and veterans, providing a healthy, accessible alternative to opioids and alcohol, and we’ll regulate it so only adults can access FDA‑approved hemp beverages,” he added.
Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D‑MN) called the vote good news for Minnesota’s farmers, brewers, small businesses and customers.
Sen. Tina Smith (D‑MN) said she and Klobuchar worked to delay the ban until December, which will now be signed into law.
She added that adults should be free to buy THC beverages, noting Minnesota’s strong regulatory system and the ban’s potential harm to farmers and breweries.
Rep. Morgan Griffith (R‑VA) promoted his HEMP Act, saying it will create federal oversight, safety standards and responsible regulation.
Rep. Angie Craig (D‑MN) warned the delay is only a step forward and urged continued fight to protect thousands of Minnesota jobs.
The funding bill’s synthetic carve‑out lets recriminalization of non‑plant‑derived cannabinoids begin on November 12.
Multiple lawmakers have introduced bills to prevent the ban and set regulations, including Rep. Beth Van Duyne (R‑TX) and Rep. Greg Landsman (D‑OH), who propose taxing and regulating hemp drinks like alcohol.
Rep. James Comer (R‑KY) circulates legislation that would delay the ban and impose packaging, testing and age limits.
Rep. Andy Barr (R‑KY) filed a detailed proposal to stop recriminalization and set manufacturing, labeling, sales and taxation rules, including a 21‑year age limit.
The measure now heads to President Trump for signature.
