Vasilios Kottas Bonel
Vasilios Kottas Bonel
Vasilios Kottas Bonel

Vasilios is the co-founder of Little Rick, a hemp drinks brand focused on making it easier to relax in a fast-paced world. With a background in business, finance, and startups, he writes about the real experience of building a brand from the ground up — from product development and wellness trends to the challenges and mindset behind growing something new. Outside of work, he’s into surfing, boxing, strength training, and spending time in nature. He’s curious about how people live, what motivates them, and how to create a life that feels good — not just looks good. His posts blend practical insight with honest reflections from the journey so far.

September 2025 – Regulatory Update by State

September 2025 – Regulatory Update by State

Intro: The landscape for hemp-derived THC beverages and edibles continues to evolve across the U.S. This month, we witnessed a mix of legislative adjustments, with significant developments that could impact market access and compliance requirements. Key areas of focus include potential new restrictions and promising regulatory relaxations that could shape the future for hemp brands.

⚖️ State-by-State Breakdown

Texas

  • New legislation banning hemp beverages has passed and is awaiting the Governor's decision.
  • If enacted, this law would halt sales of all THC drink and gummy products by Little Rick in Texas.
  • The next steps include urging the Governor to veto this decision and monitoring the Texas Hemp Business Council's letter-writing campaign.

Delaware

  • Anticipation for revised hemp beverage legislation that promises to be more favorable.
  • Should the updates pass, this could facilitate easier market access for 5mg/25mg THC drinks.
  • The team is poised to receive updated bill details soon.

Nevada

  • A bill proposing a total THC ban was defeated, with a new advisory subcommittee on hemp products formed instead.
  • This development allows Little Rick to maintain its market presence in Nevada, possibly under clearer regulations.
  • Monitoring the progress of Assembly Bill 76 as it advances to the Governor's desk is the next step.

Maine

  • Pending legislation is expected to set a 21-plus age limit and require child-resistant packaging, excluding beverages.
  • This means THC drinks can continue to be sold without new packaging adjustments, though gummies will require compliance.
  • Final legislative details are expected to be disclosed this week.

Massachusetts

  • A recent bill passed in the House now allows the sale of 5mg hemp beverages in liquor stores.
  • This unlocks a significant opportunity for Little Rick to expand its market for low-dose THC drinks in Massachusetts.
  • The bill's progress in the Senate and any potential adjustments are currently being followed closely.

Illinois

  • The legislative session concluded with no new hemp beverage legislation.
  • For now, the regulatory status quo is maintained, with future opportunities possible during the veto session.
  • Engagement in summer working groups to influence favorable future legislation is a planned step.

Ohio

  • Proposed HB56 in Ohio seeks to impose a 5mg THC limit per drink among other restrictions.
  • This proposal permits the marketing of 5mg drinks by Little Rick, though higher doses and gummies face restrictions.
  • Efforts toward favorable amendments will continue before an agreement is reached between the House and Senate.

Oregon

  • Input from the Hemp Beverage Association (HBA) was accepted during the development of the state’s hemp beverage program.
  • This engagement is expected to possibly yield favorable regulatory outcomes for Little Rick.
  • Continued dialogue with regulators is the current strategy.

Conclusion: Stay tuned for our next monthly update as we continue to track these crucial developments and their implications for hemp-derived THC products.

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