Senate Farm Bill Draft Targets Intoxicating Hemp Products, Signaling Big Changes for South Carolina
The U.S. Senate has taken a major step toward addressing a significant issue in the hemp industry. A draft of the upcoming Farm Bill, released by Senator Debbie Stabenow of Michigan, proposes to close loopholes that have allowed intoxicating hemp-derived products like delta-8 THC and THCA to flood the market. For South Carolina, these potential federal changes could carry meaningful consequences for businesses, consumers, and public health alike.
Bipartisan Momentum to Regulate Hemp THC
The draft Farm Bill reflects an emerging consensus across party lines that action is needed to regulate intoxicating hemp products. These products, including delta-8 THC and THCA flower, are widely marketed as federally legal due to ambiguities in the current 2018 Farm Bill. These loopholes have fueled the rapid growth of a market that often operates with minimal oversight, leaving questions about safety, quality, and legality.
Under the new Senate proposal, hemp would be redefined to include all THC variants — not just delta-9 THC, but also "total THC," which encompasses THCA, the precursor that becomes psychoactive when heated. This approach represents a stricter standard than the previous law, which defined hemp as containing no more than 0.3% delta-9 THC only.
The draft stops short of an outright ban on hemp-derived THC, as proposed in a Republican-led House amendment, but it sets clear boundaries that many believe are necessary to protect consumers and clarify hemp’s role in the broader cannabis industry.
Impacts on South Carolina’s Hemp Industry
For South Carolina, these proposed changes hold particular importance. Local hemp businesses that produce or sell products derived from delta-8 THC or THCA could face significant shifts if the federal regulations are enacted. Entrepreneurs in this space will need to reevaluate their product lines and focus on compliance to remain competitive in this evolving market.
On the other hand, stricter rules could create a more stable and trustworthy hemp industry in South Carolina. These changes aim to address concerns about unregulated products potentially posing public health risks, such as inconsistent dosages, contamination, or marketing targeting underage consumers. By tightening regulations, the industry could bolster its credibility, paving the way for sustainable growth.
Public Health at the Forefront
Public health concerns have been at the center of the move to regulate intoxicating hemp products. Unlike traditional cannabis, hemp-derived products have emerged rapidly and often bypass existing frameworks meant to ensure safety. South Carolina lawmakers and organizations have already begun grappling with these challenges on a state level. The proposed federal measures could relieve some of the pressure on individual states by creating a consistent national standard.
Shanita Penny, an expert on hemp and cannabis policy, highlighted the urgency of these changes, pointing out that lawmakers are prioritizing these updates to hemp regulations as part of the Farm Bill rather than relying on standalone legislation. This approach underscores the widespread recognition that more oversight of intoxicating hemp products is needed now.
A Call to Action for South Carolina Stakeholders
The 2025 Farm Bill represents a key moment for South Carolina’s hemp industry to help shape its future. Stakeholders — from small-business owners and farmers to public health advocates — must engage with policymakers to ensure the final law reflects a balanced approach. While safeguarding public health remains critical, fostering an environment that supports fair business practices and innovation is also essential.
The South Carolina Healthy Alternatives Association encourages businesses, health professionals, and residents to reach out to their state and federal representatives. Your voice can make a difference in crafting policies that work for South Carolina. With proper communication and collaboration, the state can help lead the way in building a safer, more resilient hemp industry.
Change is on the horizon, and it’s up to us to shape it. Share your concerns, lend your expertise, and stay informed as this pivotal legislation progresses. Together, we can ensure a healthy and thriving future for South Carolina.