States are rushing to ban or restrict sales of intoxicating cannabis drinks that have exploded in popularity in a market lacking many of the regulations imposed on marijuana. The drinks get their psychoactive properties from hemp, marijuana's less potent and less regulated cousin. They can be sold outside dispensaries — in some states, to minors — and are increasingly drawing a variety of consumers including sober-curious drinkers and craft beer enthusiasts, industry experts say.
The boom has sparked a wave of lawsuits and legislation, as officials try to rein in a rapidly growing industry that is drawing interest from business groups such as brewers or alcohol distributors who want a piece of the nascent market.
More than 80 bills regulating hemp beverages were introduced in state legislatures this year, according to government relations firm MultiState. Lawmakers in Alabama, Georgia and Texas — one of the country's largest hemp markets — have recently tried to ban intoxicating hemp drinks. Congress is considering a similar measure.
"We've got to get the genie back in the bottle," said Texas state Sen. Charles Perry (R) at a hearing in March.
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