US Senators Reintroduce Legislation to Regulate Hemp Products and Ensure Safety
Oregon Senators reintroduce legislation to regulate hemp products, aiming to balance consumer safety with market growth
Key Points
- 1Senators Wyden and Merkley reintroduced the Cannabinoid Safety and Regulation Act
- 2The bill aims to regulate hemp products and enhance FDA oversight
- 3It proposes setting a federal age limit, prohibiting synthetic cannabinoids, and requiring FDA registration
- 4Industry stakeholders support the bill as a balanced regulatory approach
- 5The legislation seeks to replace bans with structured safety standards
On December 10, 2025, Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley from Oregon reintroduced the Cannabinoid Safety and Regulation Act (CSRA), aiming to establish comprehensive safety standards for hemp products in the United States. This legislative move follows the inclusion of hemp-related provisions in the FY26 Agriculture Appropriations Bill, which redefined hemp and limited THC content in hemp-derived products. The CSRA seeks to amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to enhance the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) role in regulating these products
The lack of clear regulatory standards since the 2018 Farm Bill has led to a market filled with inconsistencies and untested products, some of which target minors. The CSRA proposes setting a federal age limit of 21 for hemp product use, prohibiting synthetic cannabinoids and high THC levels, and establishing mandatory labeling standards. Manufacturers would be required to register with the FDA and adhere to strict testing and manufacturing guidelines
Senator Wyden emphasized the importance of this legislation as a balanced approach to consumer protection and market growth. He argued against outright bans, citing the negative impact on jobs and small businesses. "My legislation takes the thoughtful and measured approach necessary to implement strong consumer protection regulations while fostering growth and innovation in this growing industry," Wyden stated. The bill is seen as a strategic alternative to the sweeping bans that have been proposed in recent legislation
Industry stakeholders have expressed support for the CSRA, highlighting its potential to clarify regulations and protect consumers. Jonathan Miller, General Counsel of the U.S. Hemp Roundtable, praised the bill for its focus on safety and accessibility. Similarly, Dawson Hobbs of the Wine and Spirits Wholesalers of America noted the bill's role in establishing a regulatory framework that balances state and federal standards while safeguarding public safety. These endorsements reflect a broad industry consensus on the need for clear and effective regulation
Looking ahead, the CSRA's passage could significantly impact the hemp industry by providing a structured regulatory environment that encourages innovation while ensuring consumer safety. As the bill progresses through legislative channels, stakeholders remain engaged in shaping a comprehensive solution that addresses both safety and market viability. The outcome of this legislative effort could set a precedent for future cannabis-related regulations in the United States