Group of Lawmakers Urge FDA and HHS Federal Agencies to Realize the Potential in CBD Sector

Lawmakers have recently addressed a letter to American federal agencies, the Department of Health & Human Services and the U.S Food and Drug Administration asking to realize the potential the CBD industries have and how necessary it is to have a firm regulatory framework in place as soon as possible reports Marijuana Moment.

According to Congress members, Rep. Antonio Delgado, Nydia M. Velazquez, Dwight Evans, Adriano Espaillat and Jared Golden, the passing of the Farm Bill in 2018, “ushered in the potential for a new agricultural industry that will impact textiles, paper, pharmaceuticals, dietary supplements and countless other consumer products.”

It was further emphasized that since small business account for 99 percent of all American employers, there are many opportunities that can allow said businesses to pave the path of the overall industry.

The Congress members have since expressed the eagerness of farmers within the industry, all of whom are “enthusiastically awaiting the establishment of a regulatory framework from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA).” Not to mention, their gratitude towards the FDA, where the latter’s active role in ensuring quality CBD goods and informing consumers cannot go unseen.

That said, the members are concerned with the regulatory uncertainty within the hemp industry. It was noted that the FDA has since restricted the use of CBD in food products and dietary supplements, adding that the agency deems the cannabinoid as a drug and not so much a food additive. However, low concentrated CBD has been found in different food services, which creates confusion; not to forget businesses who are currently taking advantage of the market in the worse ways possible.

To rid the hemp industry of bad players and possible health concerns, here’s what is being sought of the agencies:

“We urge FDA to issue straightforward enforcement guidance no later than September 30, 2019, so that business around the country are provided with clarity and understanding. Additionally, the FDA should promptly issue an interim final rule, to ensure a regulatory pathway through a permanent final rule, for the use of CBD as a food additive and a dietary supplement ingredient.”