Governor Gavin Newsom has announced new emergency regulations to safeguard young people from the adverse effects of dangerous hemp products.

The proposed regulations from the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) include banning detectable levels of THC in industrial hemp food, beverage, and dietary products, setting a minimum purchase age of 21, and limiting servings to five per package.

“We are acting to close legal loopholes and prevent dangerous hemp products from reaching our children,” Newsom stated.

The regulations come in response to a rise in health incidents related to intoxicating hemp products, particularly beverages and foods. Consumption of these products can negatively impact cognitive functions and memory in developing brains.

“Intoxicating hemp products can cause serious health issues,” said Tomás Aragón, CDPH Director. “The new regulations will enhance protections for consumers.”

As a pioneer in medicinal and recreational cannabis legalization, California is now updating regulations to ensure hemp products adhere to stringent standards similar to those for legal cannabis. The new rules will prohibit any detectable THC in consumable hemp products and align hemp restrictions with those of the legal cannabis market.

The regulations will take effect upon approval by the Office of Administrative Law. Retailers must remove THC-containing products from shelves, and state and local authorities, including the Department of Cannabis Control and the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC), will begin immediate enforcement.