Ensuring Public Health: The Necessity of Comprehensive Regulation for Hemp-Derived Cannabinoids
The American Healthy Alternatives Association (AHAA) is calling attention to the pressing need for comprehensive regulation of hemp-derived cannabinoids, such as delta-8 THC, due to significant potential health risks and regulatory challenges. A coalition of health, law enforcement, and anti-drug organizations has urged Congress to adopt a complete ban on these substances, emphasizing the importance of protecting public health and safety.
Rep. Mary Miller (R-IL) recently introduced an amendment to the 2024 Farm Bill, aiming to redefine legal hemp by excluding cannabinoids synthesized or manufactured outside of the plant. This amendment, which has garnered support from prohibitionists and some marijuana companies, seeks to close a regulatory loophole created by the 2018 Farm Bill.
Unlike advocates pushing for stricter regulation, the Community Anti-Drug Coalitions of America (CADCA) and 51 other organizations believe that semi-synthetic cannabinoids should be banned outright. They argue that products like delta-8 and delta-10 THC, hexahydrocannabinol (HHC), and THC-O present significant health and safety risks. CADCA's letter to Congress highlights the challenges in investigating and testing these substances, which are widely available online and in stores across the country without adequate restrictions.
“Trying to regulate semi-synthetic cannabinoids will not work,” the letter contends, citing the urgent need to close the federal loophole by explicitly excluding these products from the definition of hemp. The coalition points to research suggesting links between semi-synthetic cannabinoids and severe psychiatric disorders, respiratory issues, and other health problems. These health impacts may take years to fully understand.
The letter has been addressed to the chairs and ranking members of the agriculture and appropriations committees in both the House and Senate. In addition to Miller’s amendment, a separate spending bill approved by the House Appropriations Committee includes a provision to prohibit cannabinoid products containing any quantifiable amount of THC, further tightening regulations on hemp-derived substances.
Supporters of the amendment, including Rep. John Rose (R-TN) and Rep. Abigail Spanberger (D-VA), emphasize the need for clarity to protect farmers and ensure public safety. However, several Republican lawmakers, such as Rep. Jim Baird (R-IN) and Rep. Derrick Van Orden (R-WI), have voiced concerns about the economic impact on American farmers who have invested in hemp production under the current regulatory framework.
The debate over how to address hemp-derived cannabinoids has created divisions within the cannabis community. Some marijuana businesses align with prohibitionists in supporting a derivatives ban, while hemp industry advocates warn that such measures could also affect non-intoxicating CBD products.
As Congress considers these amendments, the AHAA underscores the necessity of a balanced approach that addresses public safety concerns while supporting the legitimate hemp industry. Comprehensive regulation, rather than outright bans, could provide a pathway to managing the risks associated with hemp-derived cannabinoids effectively.
The AHAA remains committed to advocating for policies that prioritize public health and safety in the evolving landscape of hemp and cannabis regulation.
Sources:
www.marijuanamoment.net
