WASHINGTON, D.C. — SAM Action applauds the Senate Appropriations Committee’s decision to include language banning Delta-8 THC in the base text of its appropriations bill for the first time, closing a dangerous hemp-derived intoxicant loophole created by the 2018 Farm Bill. SAM Action is proud to have provided sustained and active guidance on this crucial issue to legislators; our team was there from the very birth of this language. We inspired Congresswoman Mary Miller to spearhead this effort in the House. Ever since, we have assisted with drafting the language, holding briefings, organizing expert roundtables, and building bipartisan coalitions to fight against these intoxicating hemp products.
“The Senate’s inclusion of a ban on hemp-derived intoxicants like Delta-8 THC is a marquee win for public health and safety,” said Dr. Kevin Sabet, President of SAM Action. “For too long, Delta-8 THC dealers have taken advantage of Congress’ original intent and skirted the spirit of the law, putting families and lives at risk. Today brings us closer to legal sanity on this issue.”
Our broad coalition of organizations will now fight to ensure this language is included in any government spending package passed by the upcoming fiscal deadline. This Senate bill, which was unanimously voted out of committee, explicitly bans hemp-derived intoxicants. These psychoactive compounds have proliferated thanks to addiction profiteers exploiting an accidental gray area in federal law. The Senate’s action follows the House’s inclusion of this language in the House Agriculture Appropriations bill’s base text. It reflects growing bipartisan recognition that intoxicating hemp products pose clear public health and safety risks, particularly for children and adolescents.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued warning letters to Delta-8 THC retailers for illegally marketing adulterated food and beverage products. Texas and Missouri have reported spikes in youth access and adverse mental health outcomes tied to these dangerous THC derivatives, prompting bipartisan calls for reform.
SAM extends its gratitude to Senate leadership, including Appropriations Chair Susan Collins and Vice Chair Patty Murray, as well as Agriculture Subcommittee Chair John Hoeven and Ranking Member Jeanne Shaheen—with special thanks to Senator Mitch McConnell—for coming together across the aisle to protect kids.
We also thank the many senators who have championed efforts against intoxicating hemp derivatives and look forward to recognizing additional members as the legislation advances.
We urge the full Senate to adopt this provision banning Delta-8 THC and hemp-derived intoxicants. We remain committed to working with lawmakers to ensure that all intoxicating hemp products are permanently removed from shelves.