ALBANY, N.Y. – While CBD producers anxiously await federal guidance, some states are taking preemptive action to fill in the regulatory gaps.
New York Governor Andrew Cuomo (D) has just signed a bill to regulate the production of hemp and CBD products. The new laws are considered to be one of the most comprehensive in the country.
Under the new law, hemp farmers, extractors, and manufacturers will have to obtain a license from the New York Department of Agriculture and Markets. Detailed rules have also been created for product labeling and lab testing of all hemp and CBD products.
“The hemp industry in New York is exploding and with that growth comes a responsibility to regulate the industry in a way that helps ensure its long-term viability and protects consumers,” Cuomo said, according to NY Daily News.
With concerns over substandard CBD products mounting—due in part to the ongoing vaping-related illness epidemic—and with federal regulations yet to arrive, many believe states need to do more to regulate and protect consumers.
“The spirit of the bill creates standards and safety protocols for producers,” said Allen Gandelman, president of the New York Cannabis Growers and Processors Association, according to NYUP.com. “Pushing standards forward is good for the industry.”
Gov. Cuomo views hemp and CBD production regulation as a necessary step toward helping farmers, manufacturers, and consumers.
“By establishing a regulatory framework for producing and selling hemp and hemp extract we can set the industry on a path to continued growth in a smart, safe way that empowers both farmers and consumers,” Cuomo said.
The new rules do not address hemp and CBD as food additives. New York has banned hemp- and CBD-infused food and drinks, echoing FDA policy. While Gandelman is pleased New York is moving forward on regulations, he believes the new laws missed an opportunity to provide clarity on popular CBD-infused edibles.
“They are kicking the can down the road on beverages (and food)” Gandelman said.
Perhaps infused edibles will be addressed soon by Gov. Cuomo. The governor plans to host a forum analyzing additional hemp and CBD policies next month.