On July 20, three US Senators reintroduced “The Hemp Access and Consumer Safety Act,” a legislative proposal initially put forth in 2021. The primary objective of this bill is to legalize hemp-derived CBD for use in supplement and food products. At the heart of this measure lies the urgent need for FDA regulation of CBD, which has been a contentious issue in recent years.
Aiming to address the concerns and complexities surrounding the hemp industry, the legislation has garnered support from key players such as the American Herbal Products Association (AHPA). This hemp-industry group recognizes the significance of establishing a well-defined and consistent regulatory framework for the production, marketing, and sale of hemp-derived CBD. By doing so, they hope to ensure consumer safety and foster a regulated market that can build trust and credibility among consumers.
The President of AHPA, underscored the importance of proper regulation for hemp and CBD products as it will offer consumers the much-needed assurance and confidence in the products they use. The proposed bill seeks to amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act), granting the FDA the authority to establish comprehensive regulatory guidelines for hemp and hemp-derived CBD products within the food and dietary supplement industry. Through this legislative effort, the proponents aim to strike a balance between encouraging a thriving CBD market and safeguarding the interests of consumers through effective oversight.
