Supporters urge regulation of hemp‑derived THC beverages; industry and health advocates highlight testing, age limits

Industry groups and public‑health advocates urged the Joint Committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure to create a regulatory framework for hemp‑derived intoxicating beverages, arguing that regulation would close a market populated by untested, untaxed products.

"Massachusetts consumers, including minors, can access unregulated intoxicating hemp beverage products and other hemp derived products in gas stations, smoke shops online and across municipal borders," Adam Oliveri, co‑founder and CEO of Craft Collective Homegrown, told the committee while speaking for the Commonwealth Beverage Coalition. He said regulation should "prioritize consumer protection and product safety." Brandon Pollock, CEO of Theory Wellness, a licensed cannabis business, said the bills would also provide funding for local health departments to police unregulated products.

Advocates pointed to models in other states. Panelists said Minnesota generated an estimated $180 million…