Mid-Year Cannabis and Hemp Regulations Roundup

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1. Ringing in the New Year, Louisiana Brings New THC and CBD Resolutions for 2025

With every new year, brings new changes. To start off 2025, the state of Louisiana enacted new legislation regarding tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) products. In the Bayou State, beginning on January 1, 2025, THC and CBD items have had their amounts lowered to 5 mg. Previously, these products were allowed to contain these cannabinoids at 8 mg. Additionally in the new year, gas stations have been banned from selling these types of products and the age limit to purchase cannabis has been raised to the age of 21.

2. California Moves to Cement Emergency Rules Restricting Hemp-Derived Products

In a June 13, 2025, notice of proposed rulemaking, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) announced a hearing on certain cannabis and hemp regulations in the state. The regulations, which are currently being enforced, are stated as being intended to protect the health and safety of consumers, especially youth. These emergency regulations are set to expire on September 23, 2025, though the CDPH is now proposing to make the regulations permanent. A 45-day public comment period began on June 13 and a hearing for public comments is scheduled for July 28, 2025.

3. Cannabis Legalization Bill Passes in Pennsylvania House

On Tuesday, May 6, 2025, the Pennsylvania House of Representatives voted to pass a bill proposal that would legalize cannabis in the state for adults 21 years old and older. The legislation was introduced on May 4, 2025, and advanced from the House Health Committee the next day. The proposal passed 102-101. All republicans voted against the bill, while democrats voted in support of its passing. Unfortunately, the bill did not pass in the Senate.

4. Medical Cannabis Bill Vetoed by Virginia Governor

Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin recently vetoed HB 1989, a medical cannabis bill which aimed to help make improvements to product labeling for medical cannabis products as well as “codify permissible delivery locations.” With the bill no longer able to become law, the Virginia Cannabis Control Authority regulations will now be taken into effect. These include decreasing access for medical cannabis patients. Medical cannabis will only be allowed to be delivered to the patient’s residence.

5. Missouri State Lawmakers Push for Stricter Rules on Hemp Products

In February 2025, bills were passed in Missouri that would affect how hemp-derived products are sold in the state. On February 5, a House committee bill passed with a vote of 12 to 5, while a bill passed in a Senate committee with a vote of 5 to 1 on February 6. Both bills would allow products with hemp-derived THC to continue to be sold in stores, while intoxicating edibles and vapes would not be able to be sold outside of dispensaries. Both would also implement a three-tier distribution system.