Puerto Rico House health panel hears testimony on chemically altered hemp products, moves to seek ban

A House of Representatives Health Committee hearing on June 17, 2025, heard testimony from parents, lawmakers and health advocates about chemically altered hemp products sold in gas stations, vape shops and other retail outlets that witnesses say have caused serious health problems for young people.

The presiding member of the Health Committee, speaking at the start of the hearing, said: "Esta sería la última vista pública que vamos a hacer en torno a este proyecto." The panel heard a mother, Zulema Vázquez, describe her son's hospitalization and long-term health effects after using a commercially sold product she identified as containing delta‑8/THC.

Why it matters: witnesses and members said the products are widely available to minors, sometimes marketed with flavors and packaging that appeal to youth, and in preliminary tests submitted by the committee showed THC levels above federal hemp limits. The committee indicated it will amend the pending House bill to seek a prohibition rather than mere regulation.

Zulema Vázquez, who testified…