Hemp Beverage Alliance Works to Establish Regulatory Framework in Michigan

Hemp industry trade association Hemp Beverage Alliance (HBA) is launching an effort to create and support a sensible regulatory framework for hemp beverages in Michigan.

HBA representatives met earlier this week with several legislators to testify about the need for sensible regulations on hemp beverages before the Michigan House Regulatory Reform Committee, according to HBA.

“Across the country, adults increasingly are turning to hemp beverages as an alternative to what’s currently available at the bar or liquor store,” said Christopher Lackner, president, Hemp Beverage Alliance, in a news release. “By creating a regulatory framework for this new category in Michigan, local brewers, bar owners, distributors, and beverage retailers can respond to this change in adult consumer habits.”

The Hemp Beverage Alliance has retained the lobbying services of former state representative Graham Filler of McAlvey Merchant & Associates to help lead legislative efforts in Michigan, according to HBA.

“A sensible regulatory framework will allow a safe, thriving and transparent hemp beverage industry in Michigan while generating more tax revenues and creating new jobs,” said Filler in the release. “As employment and sales tax revenue decline in the beer, wine and spirits sectors, the sale of hemp beverages, if properly regulated, could replace some of those lost tax dollars and jobs. ”

States with a regulatory framework for hemp products enjoy significant tax revenues. In 2024, Minnesota taxed hemp products at 10% and generated $11.6 million in revenue, according to HBA. Tennessee, which taxes hemp products at 6%, generated more than $11 million in revenue in 2024. That number jumped to $17 million for 2025. These numbers are expected to increase as awareness of the category grows.

The post Hemp Beverage Alliance Works to Establish Regulatory Framework in Michigan appeared first on Beverage Information Group.