Madison – Representative Jim Piwowarczyk (R-Town of Erin) joined Representatives Lindee Brill, Bob Donovan, Chuck Wichgers, and Senator Chris Kapenga to introduce new legislation aimed at closing a troubling gap in Wisconsin’s hemp laws. The proposed bill addresses a legal loophole that has allowed potentially dangerous, psychoactive THC products to be sold without necessary oversight. If passed into law, Wisconsin would join several other states that have either passed similar legislation or are considering it.
“The way our current state and federal laws define hemp has unintentionally opened the door to a wide range of intoxicating substances,” said Rep. Piwowarczyk. “While delta-9 THC is still regulated, other chemically similar compounds—like delta-8 THC, delta-10 THC, and HHC—have slipped through the cracks and are now showing up in everything from gummies to vape cartridges.”
These hemp-derived cannabinoids are often available over the counter, with few or no age restrictions, and little in the way of regulation. These products are not only easily accessible but are also being marketed in forms that appeal to young people, such as flavored edibles and beverages.
“There’s growing evidence that these substances pose a serious risk to public health, THC is a gateway drug and can lead to addiction along with brain, heart, and lung disorders. THC can be linked to anxiety, depression and schizophrenia.” Piwowarczyk continued. “We’ve seen an alarming increase in poison control calls, ER visits, and hospitalizations—especially among children—related to delta-8 and similar compounds. Both the CDC and FDA have issued strong warnings, yet the products remain widely available in Wisconsin.”
“This isn’t about banning hemp,” Piwowarczyk said. “It’s about protecting our communities from unregulated, synthetic substances that are being sold under the guise of legal hemp. Our goal is to safeguard public health while preserving the legitimate agricultural benefits of industrial hemp.”
“I hope to see broad bipartisan support as we move forward with circulating this bill in the coming weeks to address what has clearly become a growing public safety concern.”
