UPDATES ON MISSOURI, PENNSYLVANIA AND COLORADO

Missouri
Missouri took a meaningful step forward last night. After an extended filibuster, the Senate passed HB 2641 and sent it back to the House before it goes to the Governor. The bill is restrictive in its broader treatment of intoxicating hemp, but it preserves a defined runway for beverage products. Under the bill, hemp beverage products may continue to be sold through November 12th. If the relevant federal language is extended, that date would move as well. HBA’s work in the state helped keep beverages in the market as the legislation moved through the Senate. News here.

Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania continues to move in a constructive direction. Draft legislation is advancing with support from key allies, including Representative Malagari, and the conversation remains focused on creating a viable regulatory framework for hemp-derived THC beverages. HBA’s lobbyist have helped keep the discussion practical, informed, and tailored to the beverage category. Pennsylvania remains a state where there is real opportunity to build a durable model that addresses safety, labeling, and age-restricted access while preserving a meaningful route to market. News here.

Colorado
Colorado is also seeing movement through beverage-specific legislation. The current proposal would create a clearer path for hemp-derived THC beverages in bars, restaurants, and other retail settings, and it reflects a more developed conversation around how these products should be regulated. That is an important development in a state that has taken a narrower view of intoxicating hemp. The details will matter, particularly with respect to potency, channel restrictions, and product standards, but the legislation presents a serious opportunity to improve the market for compliant beverage products. News here.