Hemp group threatens lawsuit over Newsom ban

A hemp trade association threatened to sue California if the state enacts Gov. Gavin Newsom's proposed ban on intoxicating hemp-derived products.

Introducing the emergency regulation on September 6, Newsom said the largely unregulated products pose a threat to children. If enacted, the Governor's proposal would also fulfill a goal held by much of the licensed cannabis industry to minimize competition with intoxicating hemp, which is more loosely regulated and taxed at a lower rate.

Responding in a 24-page letter, lawyers for the U.S. Hemp Roundtable . . .