WASHINGTON, D.C. (WHKY) — U.S. Senator Ted Budd is renewing his push to permanently close what he calls a dangerous federal loophole allowing intoxicating hemp-derived THC products to be sold with little regulation.

During remarks on the Senate floor Wednesday, Budd urged fellow senators to approve legislation that would regulate intoxicating hemp products and prevent them from being marketed in ways that appeal to children. The North Carolina Republican argued that colorful packaging, candy-like products and convenience-store sales have contributed to a sharp rise in pediatric poisonings.

Budd cited national data showing emergency department visits involving pediatric cannabis poisonings increased by 461 percent between 2018 and 2023. He also said North Carolina saw a 969 percent increase in cannabis consumption-coded emergency department visits among minors between 2017 and 2025.

The senator argued intoxicating hemp products should be regulated similarly to marijuana if they produce intoxication and criticized manufacturers for marketing products that resemble popular snack foods and candy.

Budd said he has discussed the issue with the White House and pledged to continue pressing Congress to permanently close the hemp loophole before the end of the current session.

Supporters of the hemp industry have argued many products are federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill and that responsible regulation is preferable to outright bans. Debate over how intoxicating hemp products should be regulated continues both in Congress and in state legislatures, including North Carolina.