HEMP BEVERAGE ALLIANCE HELPS EXTEND TESTING AND LICENSING FLEXIBILITY IN MINNESOTA

The Minnesota Office of Cannabis Management recently issued an updated licensing and testing notice for lower-potency hemp edibles, including hemp beverages, along with revisions to Guidance Memo 2025-03. The update reflects a practical implementation approach that HBA advocated for through written comment and direct, personal engagement with OCM leadership.

The agency recognized that testing infrastructure remains in build-out mode and confirmed that existing hemp businesses can continue operating under Minn. Stat. § 151.72 past January 1, 2026, including continued use of out-of-state testing laboratories. The agency will now wait until March 31, 2026 to issue licenses to hemp manufacturers and wholesalers. OCM also confirmed that compliant products do not need to be pulled from shelves during the transition.

HBA appreciates the Minnesota operators who documented the real-world bottlenecks and stayed constructive in their advocacy. We will continue engaging the Office and policymakers on the remaining statutory issues OCM flagged for legislative consideration.

Click here to read our comments to OCM