Wisconsin Lawmakers Propose Bill to Prohibit Hemp-Derived THC

Representative Lindee Brill (R-Sheboygan Falls), joined by Representatives Jim Piwowarczyk (R-Hubertus), Chuck Wichgers (R-Muskego), Bob Donovan (R-Greenfield), and Senator Chris Kapenga (R-Delafield), announced the measure this week. The bill targets what they describe as a loophole in state and federal hemp definitions. While delta-9 THC remains a controlled substance, other psychoactive cannabinoids derived from hemp have been legally sold in Wisconsin through products like gummies, vapes, oils, and beverages. Lawmakers argue that the lack of regulation and age restrictions has fueled a surge of unregulated sales across the state.

According to Brill and her colleagues, this proliferation poses a growing public health risk. They cite a rise in delta-8 THC poisonings among children that have led to hospitalizations, as well as a spike in poison control calls and emergency room visits linked to hemp-derived cannabinoids. Both the FDA and CDC have issued warnings about the dangers of these products, which remain largely unregulated.

Brill emphasized that the legislation would not impact the state’s industrial hemp industry, which she says continues to provide economic benefits. Instead, the bill is designed to ban intoxicating hemp-derived cannabinoids while allowing hemp cultivation for non-psychoactive uses.