Lawmakers Clarify Law Regulating THC Consumable Products

State lawmakers who helped establish a new law regulating the sale of consumable products that contain a level of hemp-derived THC met with the media Tuesday, July 5, to explain its impact on the sale of THC-infused food and beverages. The law addresses a byproduct of the 2018 federal farm bill, which changed the definition of industrial hemp and spurred the illicit sale of hemp consumable products in Minnesota.

“We actually created more constraints and clarity in the marketplace than what we had before,” said House Majority Leader Ryan Winkler, DFL-Golden Valley. “We absolutely did this on purpose. It was an intentional step forward, and it is an opportunity for Minnesota’s businesses and Minnesota consumers to have access to a product that can be safe and is widely available and used today; however, through an illicit marketplace.”

Senate Majority Leader Jeremy Miller, R-Winona, released a statement, saying, “We passed bipartisan legislation that would restrict many THC products after the 2018 Federal Farm Bill opened up a new market for these products. Our bill regulates the industry and keeps these products away from kids. Adding clear labeling, limiting the sale to 21 years or older, and banning certain marketing practices aimed at children were absolutely necessary.”