News - Ohio passed a new hemp law. What it means for THC-infused drinks

Ohio lawmakers just voted to restrict most hemp products, but THC-infused beverages will be available at least through the end of 2026. Here's what you need to know. Senate Bill 56, which heads to Gov. Mike DeWine's desk for his signature, sets a limit for how much THC hemp products, such as gummies and candies, could contain and where they could be sold. The changes would take effect 90 days after DeWine signs the bill. But there's an exception for THC beverages through the end of next year. The change mirrors a federal hemp ban that Congress passed as part of the bill to end the government shutdown. The federal restrictions take effect Nov. 16, 2026. The federal change responded to a gray market created by the 2018 Farm Bill, which legalized intoxicating hemp with few limits. Will Ohio ban THC-infused beverages? Under Senate Bill 56, hemp products, such as gummies and candies, with more than 0.4 milligrams per container could only be sold in licensed marijuana dispensaries. Ohio would allow breweries and bars to sell THC beverages with no more than 5 milligrams of THC per serving until Dec. 31, 2026. After that, Ohio lawmakers will follow Congress's lead. "If the federal government were to move off of this point on beverages, we are willing to have a conversation as to what a regulated, well-thought-out, tested market would look like," Ohio Senate President Rob McColley said. "We'll wait and see what the federal government does." How are hemp businesses reacting? The Ohio Healthy Alternatives Association said that the new legislation "will have devastating consequences for the hemp industry, decimating the lives of tens of thousands of families, small business owners and employees across the state." Reporter Haley BeMiller contributed to this article. State government reporter Jessie Balmert can be reached at jbalmert@usatodayco.com or @jbalmert on X.