Bipartisan Bill Allowing CBD As Dietary Supplement and U.S. Border Arrest

LOS ANGELES - Sept. 21, 2020 - PRLog -- On the domestic front, a bipartisan bill allowing CBD and other hemp-derived compounds to be sold and marketed as dietary supplements is introduced in Congress. Democratic representative Kurt Schrader from Oregon, along with Republican rep Morgan Griffith, from Virginia, proposed the legislation, which would require manufacturers to comply with the FDA's rules for new dietary ingredients, as well as existing federal packaging and labeling regulations regarding hemp-derived products . The proposal has the support of industry group US Hemp Roundtable, who predict it would increase consumer confidence in CBD products, while broadening opportunities for hemp farmers nationwide. This comes after the US Department of Agriculture announced the reopening of a public comment period on hemp production and testing requirements. An overwhelming 4, 600 responses were submitted during the original feedback period which ended in January, concerning issues like the 15-day testing window and the mandate that hemp be tested only at DEA-certified labs. Industry insiders say the move indicates a willingness of the USDA to cooperate with farmers and stakeholders in amending the policies. The new comment period will reopen through October 8th, with regulations set to take effect the 31st.

In Canada, four men from the greater Toronto area are arrested for transporting cannabis, cocaine, and handguns across the US border by helicopter. Authorities seized 18 firearms destined for Canada, more than 800 marijuana plants from an illicit grow operation outside the city, and roughly 400 grams of suspected cocaine. The helicopter, as well as a truck and trailer associated with the criminal activity were also confiscated. The bust was the result of a 16-month joint investigation between the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, US Homeland Security, and the Ontario Provincial Police. According to officials, the criminal smuggling organization flew the Jet range helicopter over the border at low altitudes to avoid radar detection. Since the border was closed to all non-essential travel earlier this year due to COVID-19, nearly 30, 000 pounds of Canadian cannabis has been seized en route to the US After the latest arrests, the four men face various charges including ones related to the unlawful export, cultivation, and possession of cannabis. The ongoing investigation is now seeking information regarding the origins of the prohibited firearms.

Written by Jacqui Verdura and Micah Tatum

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