Wisconsin hemp business owners want industry regulation; here's why
- Wisconsin's hemp industry is currently unregulated, with no age restrictions or packaging requirements, leading business owners to describe it as operating like the "wild west."
- The federal definition of hemp is set to change in November, which could put local hemp businesses out of operation unless the state enacts new laws.
- Jeremy Smith, owner of local hemp company TabEASE, is advocating for legislation that includes age restrictions, packaging requirements, and a three-tier system similar to the alcohol industry.
- Legislators remain divided on hemp regulation, with some pushing for stricter rules or bans on THC products, causing delays and uncertainty in passing new laws.
MILWAUKEE - Operating in the wild west. That is how local hemp business owners describe the hemp industry in Wisconsin. Now, there is a push to regulate it.
What we know:
Hemp and THC are both from the cannabis sativa plant. But their chemical composition differs significantly. Hemp contains less than 0.3% of TV; it's also non-intoxicating. Cannabis contains high levels of THC, which is that "high" feeling users get.
There are no age restrictions or packaging requirements when it comes to hemp sales in Wisconsin.
Jeremy Smith is the owner of TabEASE, a local company that manufactures hemp products. He told FOX6 News, the clock is ticking.
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"Legislation is at a gridlock," Smith said.
In November, the federal definition of hemp will change.
What they're saying:
"None of the businesses here in Wisconsin will be able to operate after that point," Smith said.
Smith supports a bill that lays out those age restrictions and packaging requirements – and is pushing for a public hearing on the matter while the Assembly is in session this week.
"There is an extreme urgency right now because there is a billion-dollar industry at stake come November. If we don’t get a state law passed in this session – there is very minimal chance we can do it in the remainder of the year," Smith said.
Dig deeper:
Another bill on the table would create a three-tier system for hemp; like the alcohol industry – separating manufacturers, distributors and retailers.
Legislators remain divided. In October, State. Rep. Jim Piwowarczyk co-sponsored a bill that would tighten the state's rules on hemp and THC products, making all THC products illegal.
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FOX6 News reached out to several state legislators on Tuesday, Feb. 17. No one was available for an interview.