California is keeping its ban on hemp-derived THC in place—at least until June. The state’s Department of Public Health has moved to temporarily extend restrictions first imposed last fall, with approval expected by March 24. The move highlights growing concerns about unregulated hemp THC products, particularly their accessibility to minors.
California Takes a Hard Line on Hemp THC
Many states have placed limits on hemp-derived THC, but California is taking one of the toughest stances in the country. Even with legal marijuana available, the state remains firm on blocking the sale of hemp THC products containing any detectable amount of intoxicating cannabinoids.
Last year, emergency regulations were put in place with Gov. Gavin Newsom’s support. Those rules included:
- A minimum age of 21 for purchasing hemp products.
- A zero-tolerance policy for THC or other intoxicating cannabinoids in hemp-derived foods, beverages, and supplements.
- A cap of five servings per package for hemp products.
Policymakers argue that these rules are necessary to prevent youth access and to regulate a market that has operated in a legal gray area.
If the state Office of Administrative Law approves the extension, the restrictions will continue for another 90 days. After that, regulators will have one more chance to extend the ban before making the rules permanent.
Hemp vs. Regulated Cannabis: An Ongoing Battle
California’s stance on hemp-derived THC reflects a broader struggle between the hemp industry and licensed cannabis businesses. The latter group, already facing steep taxes and black-market competition, sees hemp THC as an unfair rival.
Gov. Newsom has openly criticized the availability of these products in mainstream retail stores. In a press conference last September, he pointed out how hemp-based THC gummies and drinks were being sold at Total Wine & More. That retailer has partnered with Curaleaf Holdings, a major cannabis company that also produces hemp THC items.
State regulators have since cracked down, seizing hemp THC products from stores. The enforcement actions reinforce California’s determination to keep the hemp-derived THC market tightly controlled.
What’s Next for Hemp THC in California?
With another extension likely, the next steps for hemp-derived THC regulation remain uncertain. The ban could last through the summer, and if lawmakers choose to make the rules permanent, the industry will have to adjust.
Some key possibilities include:
- A permanent ban: If regulators solidify the zero-THC rule, businesses selling hemp THC in California may have to shut down or pivot entirely.
- A regulated pathway: Lawmakers could eventually create a licensing framework, similar to marijuana, to tax and track hemp-derived THC sales.
- Federal intervention: With national conversations about hemp regulations heating up, federal changes could influence California’s approach.
For now, the state remains firm in its crackdown, leaving hemp businesses and consumers in a state of uncertainty.