WSWA Statement Supporting Three-Year Extension to Federal Hemp Production Deadline

WASHINGTON, D.C., Jan. 13, 2026 - Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) today expressed support for legislation introduced by Rep. James Baird that would extend the implementation timeline for recent changes to the legality of hemp-derived products.

The bill, H.R. 7010, has received bipartisan cosponsors and would extend the current one-year deadline by two years-moving the looming 2026 compliance cliff to 2028. The additional time would allow Congress and states to develop a thoughtful, enforceable regulatory framework for intoxicating hemp products.

"If intoxicating products are going to be sold to consumers, they should be regulated responsibly-it's just common sense," said Francis Creighton, WSWA president and CEO. "Extending this deadline creates space and urgency for policymakers to do this the right way, rather than rushing toward an outcome that risks pushing consumers into unregulated and unsafe markets."

WSWA will continue to work with lawmakers to advance a comprehensive regulatory framework for intoxicating hemp products that ensures accountability, transparency, and consumer protection at both the state and federal level. The alcohol industry has 80 years of experience in safely producing and selling intoxicating products. The same regulatory system that has worked for alcohol can be applied to intoxicating hemp products.

WSWA has consistently warned that a ban on intoxicating hemp products will not remove irresponsibly made intoxicating hemp products from the marketplace. Instead, it will increase the likelihood that consumers will turn to unregulated channels, including online sales, where age verification, product standards, and enforcement are limited or nonexistent.

"A longer implementation period allows Congress to consider durable solutions that prioritize public health and safety, respect state authority, and draw on the proven lesson of alcohol regulation," Creighton added. "We appreciate Rep. Baird's leadership in recognizing the importance of regulatory certainty for businesses, farmers, consumer, and state regulators alike."

About Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America

WSWA is the national trade association representing the distribution tier of the wine and spirits industry, dedicated to advancing the interests and independence of distributors and brokers of wine and spirits. Founded in 1943, WSWA has more than 380 member companies in 50 states and the District of Columbia, and its members distribute more than 80 percent of all wine and spirits sold at wholesale in the United States.

To learn more, please visit www.wswa.org or connect with us on LinkedIn, Facebook or X.

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