Hemp-derived THC drinks could be out the door as local breweries face looming federal ban

A federal crackdown on intoxicating hemp products is now expected in December, after Congress passed a bill that caps THC in drinks, gummies and other infused products, according to WDIO. The change would make most hemp-derived THC products illegal to sell and manufacture.

Block Club Chicago recently reported how Revolution Brewing, the largest craft brewery in Illinois, invested more than half a million dollars in equipment to make a popular THC beverage called Reverb. Owner Josh Deth said, per Block Club Chicago, “The beverage is safe, effective and approachable. People who have never smoked a joint in their life are drinking this.”

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According to WDIO’s report, the Senate voted 90-6 to push the federal deadline back to Friday, Dec. 11 after Sen. Amy Klobuchar introduced a funding bill designed to give Congress more time to figure out a long-term fix.

How THC drinks changed the industry 

Hemp-derived THC drinks have become a side business and, for some breweries, a lifeline as alcohol sales soften and consumers drink less beer, Block Club Chicago reported. Local brewers noted that the products helped them reach new customers and diversify their offerings at a time when the craft beer market has been under pressure.

Per a report from the Brewers Association, craft beer production in the U.S. fell 4% in 2025, and industry employment dropped 3%. Gallup confirmed that drinking remains at an all-time low in America, releasing a poll that found only 54% of U.S. adults drink alcohol; its poll dates back to 1939.

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Business fallout in Minnesota

The impact is already being felt beyond Chicago. According to WDIO, in Minnesota, Bent Paddle Brewing CEO Bryon Tonnis said THC drinks account for 10% of revenue and could put 40% to 45% of the company’s business at risk because it manufactures beverages for partners in up to 22 states.

Tonnis added, per WDIO, “As people drink a little bit less alcohol, drink a little bit less beer out in the market, we have to offer other things for our customers to consume on site,” according to the WDIO report. He also warned, “If this does disappear, there’s going to be ramifications across the board in this industry. And, you know, unfortunately, I think quite a few breweries are going to close.”

Former Superior Cannabis Company owner Jeff Brinkman, whose Canal Park hemp retailer closed in December 2025, said, “That might be the end of the Minnesota cannabinoid hemp industry,” according to WDIO.