California Moves to Ban Hemp Wellness Products: What You Need to Know

California’s Bold Rule‑Change on Hemp

In June 2025, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) unveiled a proposal to codify its emergency regulations banning hemp‑derived THC wellness products. If adopted, products like delta‑8, delta‑10, THC-O and similar cannabinoids would be prohibited in food, beverages, and supplements sold in the state.

The proposed rule, known as DPH‑24‑005, enters a 45‑day public comment period starting June 13, 2025, culminating in a public hearing on July 28, 2025. Under the draft regulations:

• Any hemp wellness product intended for human consumption must have zero detectable THC per serving
• Sales are limited to adults aged 21 +
• Products must contain no more than five servings per package 

 What the Industry Is Saying & Rumors on Message Boards

Online forums and Reddit threads are buzzing with reactions—ranging from support to skepticism. Some example quotes:

 Economic & Regulatory Stakes

According to CDPH and ABC data:

• Estimated $602 million in lost business revenue in year one, rising to $3.14 billion over five years
• Projected loss of 18,478 jobs over the same period; about 115 business closures anticipated — especially among small retailers and indie wellness shops 
• Licensed cannabis businesses could see modest gains—around $69.8 million in revenue and 232 new jobs over five years 
• Risk of fueling illicit markets and out-of-state supply to meet consumer demand 

 What Consumers & Small Businesses Should Know

If passed:

• Many hemp wellness products—such as CBD tinctures, gummies, soft drinks, sleep aids—will be banned if trace THC is present.
• Medical cannabis patients can still obtain THC products via licensed dispensaries under California’s regulated cannabis system.
• Public comments are open until July 28, 2025, ahead of the hearing.
• Some stakeholders advocate for alternative regulatory paths—like mandatory testing, clearer labeling, factual packaging (no candy-like or child-targeted designs), and safe licensing rather than outright prohibition.

 Human Perspective: Why It Matters

This ruling affects people across the spectrum:

• Parents and educators concerned that brightly packaged hemp snacks and drinks target minors
• Wellness store owners worried about losing shelf space and revenue overnight
• Cannabis license-holders supportive of curbing unfair competition
• Consumers who rely on low‑THC hemp products for sleep, anxiety, or calming routines—and fear losing access

 What Happens Next?

• Watch for the public hearing on July 28, 2025
• The CDPH and industry groups like the U.S. Hemp Roundtable may propose revisions, regulatory alternatives, or pursue legal challenges
• Federal legislation is also under discussion to redefine hemp more strictly—potentially banning THC in hemp nationwide under future Farm Bill updates

 TL;DR

California is poised to make its zero‑THC hemp wellness rules permanent, which would eliminate intoxicating hemp products from the market. While the ban aims to protect youth and support the regulated cannabis industry, it threatens local businesses, jobs, and consumer access. Public commentary and advocacy in the coming weeks may shape the outcome.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the United States Food and Drug Administration.