Pennsylvania Bill Would Align State Hemp Policy with New Federal Restrictions

A bill proposed in Pennsylvania seeks to align the state’s hemp regulations with federal standards. The measure, sponsored by Republican state Sen. Dan Laughlin would create a Pennsylvania Cannabis Control Board and ban delta-8, delta-10, and THCA products.  

Last November, President Donald Trump (R) signed a spending package to end the government shutdown, which included a ban on the sale of hemp-derived THC products. The new rules take effect in November, although a proposal by Republican Rep. Jim Baird (IN) seeks to provide a two-year delay of the restrictions. 

“Right now, there are too many gray areas in the law. By aligning our statutes with federal standards and establishing a single regulatory body, we can protect consumers, support responsible businesses and help law enforcement crack down on bad actors in the marketplace.” — Laughlin in a press release 

Laughlin added that “the current system is fragmented and has struggled to keep pace with how quickly the hemp market has evolved.” 

“A cannabis control board would provide clear oversight, ensure products are properly regulated and give law enforcement the tools they need to get illegal and potentially harmful products off store shelves,” he said in the statement. 

The bill is currently in the Senate Law and Justice Committee.