Senate Delays Hemp Ban to Allow Regulatory Framework

The Senate rejected Sen. Budd’s attempt to recriminalize hemp-derived products by a November deadline and instead backed a continuing resolution that pushes the hemp prohibition back to December 11, with a carve-out allowing immediate recriminalization of certain non-naturally produced synthetic cannabinoids on November 12. Proponents say the delay buys time to craft a federal regulatory framework for low-dose hemp products, while the White House and CMS warn about impacts on Medicare coverage and consumer safety. House lawmakers had already passed a CR without hemp changes, and a wave of bills proposing delays and regulations are circulating in both chambers, though none have gained traction yet.