Representative Chris Wooten advocates a framework that would raise the legal purchasing age to 21 for THC-containing products.

The House bill H. 3924 is under consideration as proponents push for timely regulation regardless of impending federal action next year.

South Carolina lawmakers are advancing a House-passed bill to regulate THC and hemp-derived products ahead of anticipated federal changes that could redefine hemp by total THC, signaling state action in the interim.

The measure would prohibit hemp-infused products for anyone under 21 and seeks to create state-level rules even as a federal ban on many hemp products looms.

Historically, South Carolina has had no hemp-infused beverage regulations, though these products are widely sold and generally require ID at purchase.

The SC hemp farming sector remains small and contracting, with 265 licensed growers in 2020, 98 in 2024, and 80 so far in 2025.

A 2025 SC proposal would set a 0.5 mg delta-9 THC limit for products, though the current bill contests potency restrictions and may add them after hearings.

Business owners like Libiss Skinner of High-Rise Beverage Co. testified on regulatory uncertainty and urged timely state regulation to reduce risk for firms operating in this space.

Legislators plan to craft a compromise amendment with input from industry, SLED, and other stakeholders, with potential revisions reviewed before a mid-January move to the full committee.

Retailers express concerns that strict potency limits could ban many products currently on store shelves and threaten livelihoods.

Law enforcement officials, including SLED Chief Mark Keel, warn that lack of FDA-style federal oversight and testing raises safety concerns.

State Senator Russell Ott argues for state regulation to proceed alongside unsettled federal policy, aiming to align state and federal approaches.

Some hemp product users and business owners support regulation and suggest packaging changes to reduce youth appeal.

SC Statehouse committees continue hearings on hemp regulation, with Agriculture and Natural Resources members planning further discussions in coming months.

Officials note hemp farming in SC is challenged by market saturation and price volatility, and while a new Farm Bill could affect federal rules, specifics remain uncertain.

State Sen. Michael Johnson indicates the bill’s path includes amendments on potency limits, serving sizes, on-premises rules, and taxes similar to alcohol, shaped by stakeholder input.