The American beer industry is campaigning against makers of THC-infused beverages, seeking federal regulation for these products which are currently mostly regulated by state laws. Beer industry representatives argue that "bad actors" in the THC sector are exploiting a loophole in the 2018 Farm Bill, leading to the sale of highly potent, unregulated THC products, sometimes marketed to children. Minnesota's Attorney General Keith Ellison, along with 38 others, signed a letter urging Congress to clarify the federal definition of hemp, which has raised concerns in the state's established THC market. While some in the THC industry, like Cann cofounder Jake Bullock, support regulations to curb synthetic products and child marketing, they warn that overly broad regulations could harm the growing industry. The debate over the future of THC-infused products is ongoing in Congress, with small brewers increasingly entering the hemp beverage market.

Beer Industry Group Criticizes Hemp THC “Bad Actors” for Alleged Youth Marketing

Nov 8, 2025

Source:

Marijuana Moment

The beer industry is feeling the heat from the booming hemp-derived THC drink market and is pushing for strict federal oversight. Lobbyists from the Beer Institute argue that "bad actors" are exploiting Farm Bill loopholes to sell high-potency, unregulated products that sometimes mimic candy to attract kids. This pressure reached a boiling point when 39 state attorneys general urged Congress to redefine hemp, a move that could effectively ban many popular THC social tonics. While some cannabis brands support common-sense rules like age limits and milligram caps, they fear overly aggressive federal bans will crush a multi-billion dollar industry that provides a safer, hangover-free alternative to booze.

For everyday tokers, this battle is about keeping your options open. These beverages have become a go-to for those looking to cut back on alcohol while staying social. If the beer industry successfully lobbies for a total crackdown, it could kill the accessibility and variety we’ve come to love in local shops. Ensuring the industry is regulated—not eliminated—is key to keeping these "natural tonics" on the shelves.