As the Government Reopens, Weed Products Are On the Chopping Block

"In a twist of events that befits the cursed news cycle, the end of the government shutdown is poised to have a significant negative impact on Americans' ability to purchase THC-infused edibles, drinks, and more. A provision of the legislation designed to conclude the government shutdown - 43 days and counting, the longest in history - passed by Congress on Wednesday afternoon will make it illegal to purchase products containing more than .4 milligrams of THC. It would effectively close the 2018 Farm Bill's so-called "loophole," which makes the sale of hemp legal as long as it contains less than 0.3% delta-9 THC (naturally occurring THC in hemp and cannabis plants, which most reputable brands use in their products)."

"As it stands, the legislation stands to devastate the $38.5 billion industry, but before you stockpile your favorite infused gummies and infused drinks, here's what you need to understand about the ban. 1. The legislation outlaws over 95% of products on the cannabis market In its current version, the legislation would make over 95% of THC-infused products sold in the United States illegal for purchase. Nathan Cozzolino, CEO of Rose Los Angeles, which makes infused chocolates and gummies, calls it "a clear attempt to kill the cannabis industry," but says that the law actually impacts more than just hemp-derived THC products. "Even every product in our CBD-infused line has more than .4 milligrams of THC," he says, "This law would literally make every SKU we sell illegal.""

A provision attached to the bill ending the government shutdown would ban purchases of products containing more than 0.4 milligrams of THC, closing a 2018 Farm Bill loophole that permits hemp with under 0.3% delta-9 THC. The change would render over 95% of THC-infused products illegal and threaten a $38.5 billion market. Companies report that many existing SKUs, including CBD lines, exceed the proposed THC cap and would become unlawful. The law includes a one-year implementation delay intended to give regulators and industry time to establish clear rules to keep some products legal.

Read at Bon Appetit