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Steve Bevan, one of the architects of the 2018 Farm Bill that legalized hemp, says it’s wrong to call the sale of intoxicating hemp products a “loophole.” In a letter to Republican leaders, he argued that the controversy stems from regulatory inaction, not legislative oversight. Bevan emphasized that the law intentionally included “extracts, derivatives, and cannabinoids” to help American farmers access new markets, and that proper age restrictions and quality standards could address safety concerns without banning products. He criticized efforts by some GOP lawmakers, including Mitch McConnell, and 39 state attorneys general to re-criminalize these products, noting that prohibition would ignore consumer demand, fuel the illicit market, and harm the economy.
Bevan pointed out that the FDA has failed to implement quality and safety regulations for hemp products despite Congress’s instructions, resulting in inconsistent products and no age controls. He warned that re-criminalizing intoxicating hemp would replicate historical drug war failures, while a regulatory framework could protect consumers, support businesses, and preserve economic benefits. Bevan suggested starting with age restrictions and a transition period for compliance rather than an outright ban.
The debate is intensifying in Congress, with lobbying from alcohol industry groups and split GOP positions. While McConnell and Rep. Andy Harris push for a full ban on THC-containing hemp, Sen. Rand Paul opposes prohibition, arguing it would devastate the industry and prefers studying state regulatory models instead. Paul has also introduced the Hemp Economic Mobilization Plan (HEMP) Act, which would increase legal THC limits and address federal regulation issues. Read the full story.
Referenced article originally written by . Published on November 5, 2025 by Marijuana Moment.
