Hemp beverage options fading as lawmakers diverge in Congress
This spring, President Trump’s Department of Justice approved new rules to lift hemp and cannabinoid access, but left a half-year window open for seeking possible amendments to a THC-related ban. A united, consumer-driven policy response is needed. Learning about the complex interplay between federal support versus state plans for low-THC, hemp-derived beverages remains essential.
The one-day May 21, 2026 FedHemp Action conference will be offered to showcase the timely introduction of regulatory bills in the House (i.e., Rep. Andy Barr, R-Ky.) and Senate (i.e., Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky.) to clear up how hemp beverages can be formulated, dosed, and packaged to continue to be sold to adults in 16 different states. Target has expanded its retail sales of hemp beverages. And across the stores of Total Wine, Circle K, and Sprouts, consumers are continuing to boost this new product option.
But the Nov. 12, 2026 reduction in total per-can THC options may doom the entire category.
A treasure trove of legal and regulatory minds will gather in Denver, including Jason Adelstone (Harris Slikowski), Robert Hoban (ARROWS/CTrust), Jordan Wellington (Strategies64), Jonathan Miller (U.S. Hemp Roundtable), Amber Lengacher (Kight Law), and Susan Hays (HaysLaw-Austin), offering more than 80 years of combined expertise to address the complex intersection during 11 expert panels and presentations. “Ten lead attorneys,” notes Covens, “and some of them agree.” More insight from key regulators from Minnesota, Kentucky, Texas, and Colorado will offer unique regulatory oversight. Hear live from legend Joe Hodas (who led WANA Brands and the first THC drinks at DIXIE Elixirs), and an advanced panel from key hemp beverage experts will be streamed at 10 a.m. MDT on May 21.
The comprehensive five-hour discussion is available for free, but seats are limited. Register on Eventbrite at bit.ly/4uCUMfa. Request a streaming link by texting 970-200-2221.
Please see related hemp regulation articles at: linkedin.com/in/drlloydcbgresearch
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