Attorney General Ellison statement on Minnesota's hemp industry

“I have been in communication with leaders in Minnesota’s hemp industry to listen to their concerns about how the recent government funding bill will affect their businesses. I am committed to partnering with advocates to create a responsible path forward for the industry federally, similar to what has been done here in Minnesota, in order to support Minnesota consumers, small businesses, and farmers. 

Several years ago, Minnesota created a robust regulatory framework for the legalization of lower potency hemp products. That framework has helped ensure hemp products in Minnesota are safe to consume, packaged accurately and appropriately, and not sold to underage buyers. Minnesota’s approach has been working. Our regulatory model has been effective at protecting consumers while supporting businesses and industry, from craft brewers to retailers to farmers and beyond. 

The 2018 Farm Bill’s legalization of intoxicating hemp products was not accompanied by sensible regulations to protect consumers. This unfortunately resulted in bad actors entering the market and taking advantage of the loophole in the Farm Bill to sell dangerous products across the country. These bad actors do a severe disservice both to consumers and to members of industry who work hard and play by the rules.  

The flaws of legalization by way of a loophole were clear. However, an outright ban inserted into vital legislation at the last minute without the opportunity for real discussion or debate is also the wrong path forward.  

I urge Congress to follow Minnesota’s model and working with both industry and regulators to develop a responsible regulatory infrastructure for low potency hemp products, with the option for states to impose additional regulatory measures as they see fit. Adopting the Minnesota model will put bad actors out of business, protect consumers, support members of industry who play by the rules, and preserve access to the low-potency hemp products that many people have come to enjoy. I look forward to working alongside lawmakers, regulators, and stakeholder to chart a better path forward on this important issue.”

The Official Website of Office of Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison

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