Reps. Andy Barr (R-KY) and Angie Craig (D-MN) have formally introduced the bipartisan Lawful Hemp Protection Act, comprehensive federal legislation designed to preserve lawful hemp commerce while establishing a long-awaited national regulatory framework for hemp-derived consumer products. The bill comes as the clock is ticking down toward a virtual ban on hemp-derived cannabinoid products set to go into effect on November 12. Another bill, sponsored by Rep. Beth Van Duyne (R-TX), would exempt intoxicating hemp beverages from the looming ban. "Kentucky farmers helped build America's hemp industry, and they deserve certainty," said Rep. Barr. The legislation is unsurprisingly drawing support from various sectors of the hemp industry, especially those involved in the trade in hemp-derived cannabinoids.