My bipartisan legislation that would help save the hemp industry in Wisconsin and add important consumer protections was passed out of committee this week and now heads to the Senate floor.

Senate Bill 682, which I authored with Representative Tony Kurtz, would implement state age restrictions, truth-in-labeling guidelines, independent testing requirements and potency limits for all hemp-derived cannabinoid (HDC) products, including THC beverages.

The legislation ensures that anyone under the age of 21 would not be able to purchase or consume HDC products – like THC seltzers – in Wisconsin. Under current state law, there are no age limitations on who can buy or use HDCs.

These regulations are needed in our state to bolster public safety, eliminate the current uncertainty regarding the status of HDCs and provide stability for businesses in this sector of the economy.