Company backs the Barr-Craig framework and the administration's call to fix the federal hemp definition before the November deadline
, /PRNewswire/ -- cbdMD, Inc. (NYSE American: YCBD), a leader in hemp-derived wellness, today announced its support for the bipartisan Lawful Hemp Protection Act, introduced July 21 by Rep. Andy Barr (R-KY) and Rep. Angie Craig (D-MN). The legislation would establish a long-term federal regulatory framework for hemp-derived products while preserving consumer access to lawful products. The Company also expressed support for the Administration's call to address the federal hemp definition through pending budget legislation.
The legislation comes at a pivotal time for the U.S. hemp industry. Under Section 781 of the Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations law, the federal definition of hemp is scheduled to narrow on November 12, 2026. Without congressional action, many lawful full-spectrum CBD and hemp wellness products could be removed from the marketplace. The Lawful Hemp Protection Act would repeal that provision and replace it with a durable, science-based framework.
The bipartisan sponsorship reflects a growing consensus that responsible regulation, rather than prohibition, is the appropriate path forward for the hemp industry. The bill would establish FDA oversight for hemp-derived products, with mandatory third-party testing, transparent labeling, a 21-and-over age requirement, and domestic sourcing, while targeting the synthetic intoxicants that have drawn scrutiny to the category.
Specifically, cbdMD supports a federal framework that:
Protects access to responsibly manufactured full-spectrum CBD Requires independent testing and accurate labeling Establishes clear manufacturing and marketing standards, including limits on youth-focused marketing Prevents youth access through a 21-and-over requirement Restricts synthetic and artificially modified cannabinoids Preserves lawful interstate commerce for compliant products cbdMD also welcomed the Office of Management and Budget's recent call for Congress to update the hemp definition through the funding process, which the company believes could provide relief before the November deadline if enacted.
As one of the nation's longest-standing hemp-derived CBD companies, cbdMD believes a consistent federal regulatory framework would significantly benefit consumers and responsible businesses alike by improving consumer confidence, strengthening safety standards, and providing greater certainty for manufacturers and retailers.
"Reps. Barr and Craig have demonstrated bipartisan leadership by advancing a practical regulatory framework for hemp-derived products," said Ronan Kennedy, Chief Executive Officer of cbdMD. "Responsible companies have long supported clear federal standards that protect consumers, promote product quality, and distinguish compliant hemp products from illicit synthetic intoxicants. We encourage Congress to act before the November implementation deadline."
About cbdMD, Inc.
cbdMD, Inc. (NYSE American: YCBD) is a Charlotte, North Carolina-based hemp-derived wellness company committed to safe, high-quality, science-backed products. Its family of brands includes cbdMD, cbdMD Science, Bluebird Botanicals, Paw CBD, Oasis, and ATRx Labs. For more information, visit cbdMD.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. Statements regarding pending legislation, regulatory developments, and their potential impact on the company are based on current expectations and are subject to risks and uncertainties, including the outcome of the legislative and regulatory processes described above and risks disclosed in the Company's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including its most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q. Actual results may differ materially. The company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement except as required by law.
Contacts
cbdMD, Inc.
Ronan Kennedy
Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer
[email protected]
(704) 445-3064
Hemp-derived THC beverages, including the new zero-proof Mixer, roll out to liquor retailers statewide
, /PRNewswire/ -- cbdMD, Inc. (NYSE American: YCBD) today announced that its Oasis line of hemp-derived beverages is now available in South Carolina through a new distribution agreement with Morales Beverage Group, South Carolina, a leading beverage statewide alcohol distributor. The agreement places Oasis products on liquor store shelves across the state, giving South Carolina consumers direct access to the brand at established retail destinations.
The rollout includes the the full Oasis portfolio, featuring the brand's newest release, the zero proof spirit style Mixer, a spirit-style hemp-derived beverage designed for consumers looking for a versatile option for cocktails and mixed drinks. Oasis products are now stocked at retailers throughout South Carolina, including Frugal MacDoogal, one of the Carolinas' best-known beverage destinations.
"South Carolina is an important market for Oasis, and Mexcor is the right partner to help us reach consumers where they already shop for spirits, wine, and beer," said Ronan Kennedy, CEO of cbdMD. "Getting Oasis, and especially Mixer, onto liquor store shelves alongside traditional beverage alcohol is exactly the kind of placement that introduces the brand to a broader audience."
"Its always a challenge as a distributor to make decisions on what new products to bring to the market. The team at Herbal Oasis made it very easy. A well-established company from the Carolinas, proven sales in other markets, and quality and innovation that is out pacing the industry. It was an easy yes! I'm very excited to be representing this brand in the state of South Carolina", said Adam Howard, General Manager of MGB South Carolina.
Placing Oasis within the established liquor retail channel reflects the brand's strategy of meeting adult consumers in familiar shopping environments and positioning hemp-derived beverages as an approachable option within the broader beverage category. Mexcor's distribution network and retail relationships across South Carolina provide a foundation for expanding availability over time.
Oasis products are crafted to quality and testing standards consistent with cbdMD's broader commitment to transparency and responsible product development. All Oasis products are intended for adults of legal purchasing age.
About cbdMD, Inc.
cbdMD, Inc. (NYSE American: YCBD) is a consumer wellness company building a multi-brand platform across hemp-derived wellness, beverages, pet wellness, botanical wellness, and related consumer categories. Its portfolio includes cbdMD, Paw CBD, Oasis, and Bluebird Botanicals. For more information, visit www.cbdmd.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of applicable securities laws, including statements regarding product distribution, retail availability, market expansion, consumer demand, and the Company's beverage strategy. These statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially, including risks related to distribution and retail relationships, evolving federal and state regulation of hemp-derived products, the Company's ability to maintain regulatory compliance, and other risks described in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements except as required by law.
Contacts
cbdMD, Inc.
Ronan Kennedy
Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer
Partnership reinforces Bluebird Botanicals' Colorado roots, environmental values, and commitment to responsible growth under cbdMD leadership
, /PRNewswire/ -- cbdMD, Inc. (NYSE American: YCBD) through its Bluebird Botanicals brand ("Bluebird"), today announced an official partnership with Denver Audubon, a Colorado-based conservation organization dedicated to protecting birds, restoring habitat, advancing community science, and helping transform Denver into a more bird-friendly city.
Founded in Colorado, Bluebird has long drawn inspiration from the natural world. Through this partnership, Bluebird is supporting bird conservation in the state where the Bluebird story began while reinforcing its commitment to nature, transparency, responsibility, and environmental stewardship.
"Bluebird has always stood for more than products," said Ronan Kennedy, CEO and CFO of cbdMD. "The brand was built on a connection to nature, trust, and responsible wellness. Partnering with Denver Audubon allows us to bring those values to life by supporting conservation, education, and wildlife stewardship in Colorado."
Denver Audubon leads conservation, education, and community science initiatives focused on protecting birds and improving habitat across the Denver region. Its work includes educational programming, volunteer engagement, community science efforts, and the Colorado Bluebird Project, which supports bluebird populations through nest box monitoring, habitat awareness, and public participation.
As part of the partnership, Bluebird will support Denver Audubon's conservation and education efforts through its "Buy Bluebird, Save Bluebirds" campaign, contributing 1% of profits from Bluebird product sales over three months this summer.
The announcement comes as cbdMD continues to invest in Bluebird following its acquisition of the brand and product portfolio. Rather than repositioning Bluebird away from its roots, cbdMD is focused on strengthening the brand's identity, preserving its customer relationships, and expanding the ways Bluebird can show up as a responsible wellness brand.
"When cbdMD brought Bluebird into our portfolio, we saw a brand with real history, real values, and a unique connection to consumers," Kennedy added. "Our goal is to protect and amplify what made the brand special. This partnership is a strong example of that commitment."
About cbdMD, Inc.
cbdMD, Inc. (NYSE American: YCBD) is a leading wellness company offering a comprehensive line of U.S.-produced, hemp-derived cannabinoid products, including CBD, CBG, CBN, and more. Its brands include cbdMD, one of the most trusted and recognized CBD brands in the United States; Bluebird Botanicals; Paw CBD, one of the most recognized CBD brands for pets; ATRx Labs functional mushroom supplements; and Oasis, a hemp-derived THC social beverage line. The Company is committed to quality, innovation, science, and transparency, with products distributed both online and through retail partners across the United States. To learn more, please visit www.cbdmd.com.
Bluebird is a Colorado-founded wellness brand known for its commitment to quality, transparency, responsible sourcing, and nature-inspired wellness. As part of the cbdMD, Inc. portfolio, Bluebird continues to serve consumers seeking trusted wellness products while expanding its commitment to environmental responsibility, product innovation, and community impact. To learn more, visit https://BluebirdBotanicals.com.
About Denver Audubon
Denver Audubon is a Colorado-based conservation organization dedicated to protecting birds, restoring habitat, advancing community science, and helping transform Denver into a more bird-friendly city. Through education, volunteer engagement, conservation programs, and community science initiatives, Denver Audubon connects people with nature and creates opportunities to support local bird populations and ecosystems.
For more information, visit www.denveraudubon.org.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as "expect," "will," "believe," "designed to," "anticipate," and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, including statements regarding the product's attributes and regulatory compliance, anticipated availability and distribution, and consumer demand. Forward-looking statements are based on management's current expectations and assumptions and are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties, including evolving federal and state regulation of hemp-derived THC products, that could cause actual results to differ materially, including those described in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement except as required by law.
Contacts
cbdMD, Inc.
Ronan Kennedy
Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer
[email protected]
(704) 445-3064
Years of peer-reviewed safety research position cbdMD's broad spectrum CBD for a new era of evidence-based, clinically supported wellness.
, /PRNewswire/ -- cbdMD, Inc. (NYSE American: YCBD), one of the nation's most recognized and trusted hemp-derived wellness companies, today announced the completion of a self-affirmed Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) determination supporting the safe consumption of up to 200 mg per day of cannabidiol (CBD), as delivered in the Company's proprietary broad spectrum hemp extract, in healthy adults, addressing one of the most common questions in the category of how much CBD is safe to consume per day.
The self-affirmed GRAS determination represents the culmination of years of scientific investment by cbdMD to establish a comprehensive body of evidence supporting the safety of its broad spectrum CBD products. Over the past several years, the Company has worked to develop a substantial dossier of safety data, including studies conducted in rodents, healthy human volunteers, and canines, designed to characterize the safety profile of its broad spectrum CBD formulations. This research has been published in the peer-reviewed scientific literature, spanning toxicology, genotoxicity, human tolerability, and companion-animal studies, a depth of published evidence that distinguishes cbdMD within the hemp-derived CBD category.
This extensive body of evidence was assembled through a rigorous scientific program that evaluated multiple aspects of safety across relevant preclinical and clinical models. The resulting safety dossier forms the foundation of the Company's self-affirmed GRAS conclusion, which supports the intended use of cbdMD's broad spectrum CBD products at a daily intake of up to 200 mg for healthy adults. The determination was made by an independent panel of expert toxicologists following a review of the available scientific literature on the safety of cannabidiol.
"The completion of our self-affirmed GRAS determination for the CBD contained in our proprietary broad spectrum blend marks a significant scientific and regulatory milestone for cbdMD," said Ronan Kennedy, CEO of cbdMD. "We have invested for years in building a robust portfolio of safety data because we believe consumers, healthcare professionals, and industry stakeholders deserve products supported by high-quality science. This achievement reflects our longstanding commitment to product quality, transparency, and scientific rigor."
The determination lands at a pivotal moment for the category. In 2026, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) launched the Substance Access Beneficiary Engagement Incentive, a first-of-its-kind initiative under which participating care organizations may offer eligible patients physician-guided access to non-intoxicating, third-party-tested hemp-derived CBD, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration signaled enforcement discretion for orally administered CBD products meeting dietary-supplement standards in that context. As policymakers move to bring evidence-based CBD into mainstream care, cbdMD's published safety science reflects the standards this new era demands.
The safety substantiation also supports cbdMD's ability to develop and position products across a range of formats and use occasions, from daily wellness to targeted active-lifestyle and recovery applications, and to serve both direct-to-consumer and healthcare-oriented channels. By establishing a science-backed daily intake ceiling, the determination gives clinicians, retail partners, and consumers a clear reference point for confident, consistent use across the Company's broad spectrum product line.
The Company believes this milestone further demonstrates its leadership in advancing science-based standards for hemp-derived wellness products and reinforces its commitment to supporting consumer confidence through rigorous research and responsible product development.
cbdMD's Published Safety Research
cbdMD's contributions to the peer-reviewed scientific literature on cannabinoid safety span several study types and species. They include subchronic oral toxicity and genotoxicity assessments of the Company's cannabis extract (Tallon et al., 2023, Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology); and Tallon et al., 2025, Pharmaceutical Biology); pharmacokinetic and tissue-accumulation research (Child & Tallon, 2022, Nutrients); a double-blind, randomized controlled trial of tolerability in healthy adults (Mastrofini et al., 2024, Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition); and a double-blind, placebo-controlled study in dogs (Talsma et al., 2024, Frontiers in Veterinary Science). These studies were sponsored by cbdMD, Inc. and were conducted in collaboration with independent research organizations, academic investigators, and accredited laboratories.
About cbdMD, Inc.
cbdMD, Inc. (NYSE American: YCBD) is a leading wellness company offering a comprehensive line of U.S.-produced, hemp-derived cannabinoid products, including CBD, CBG, CBN, and more. Its brands include cbdMD, one of the most trusted and recognized CBD brands in the United States; Bluebird Botanicals; Paw CBD, one of the most recognized CBD brands for pets; ATRx Labs functional mushroom supplements; and Oasis, a hemp-derived THC social beverage line. The Company is committed to quality, innovation, science, and transparency, with products distributed both online and through retail partners across the United States. To learn more, please visit www.cbdmd.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as "expect," "will," "believe," "designed to," "anticipate," and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, including statements regarding the product's attributes and regulatory compliance and CBD safety and efficacy determinations. Forward-looking statements are based on management's current expectations and assumptions and are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties, including evolving federal and state regulation of hemp-derived THC products, that could cause actual results to differ materially, including those described in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement except as required by law.
Contacts
cbdMD, Inc.
Ronan Kennedy
Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer
[email protected]
(704) 445-3064
A quadruple-filtered, zero-proof spirit with a resealable, child-resistant cap; ready to enjoy on its own or built into a mocktail
, /PRNewswire/ -- cbdMD, Inc. (NYSE American: YCBD) today announced that its hemp-derived THC ("THC") beverage brand, Herbal Oasis ("Oasis"), has launched Oasis Mixer, a translucent, zero-proof THC spirit that blends into a wide range of beverages without the cloudy, murky appearance common to other THC mixers. The spirit-style product responds to growing demand for a cleaner, more versatile THC beverage option.
Oasis main logo The clarity comes from the formulation. Most THC mixers rely on carrier oils that the body has to metabolize and that leave a drink hazy; Oasis Mixer is quad-filtered and made without them. It can be enjoyed on its own, over ice, or built into a mocktail, and comes in Citrus and Unflavored, the latter designed to add THC to any drink without altering its taste.
"Our customers told us what they wanted, and we built it," said Ronan Kennedy, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer of cbdMD. "By quadruple-filtering and removing the carrier oils competitors rely on, we deliver a translucent pour that looks right in any glass. We also ship it with a resealable, child-resistant cap, making Oasis Mixer one of the few truly CRC-compliant THC products on the market in Texas. As this category matures, consumers, retailers, and regulators should expect that level of quality and responsibility from every brand in the space."
Each bottle delivers:
Translucent, oil-free pour; quad-filtered 10mg THC per serving; 170mg THC per bottle Zero calories, zero sugar, zero carbs Resealable child-resistant cap Demand outpaced supply at launch: the initial production run was over-subscribed by the Company's distributor base. Oasis Mixer will be available statewide in Tennessee, Florida, Texas, and South Carolina, as well as in select North Carolina markets, subject to applicable state laws and shipping restrictions.
The spirit-style format lets Oasis participate in a massive part of the category and positions the brand as a beverage platform, one built to expand beyond THC into a broader range of functional beverages over time.
About cbdMD, Inc.
cbdMD, Inc. (NYSE American: YCBD) is a leading wellness company offering a comprehensive line of U.S.-produced, hemp-derived cannabinoid products, including CBD, CBG, CBN, and more. Its brands include cbdMD, one of the most trusted and recognized CBD brands in the United States; Bluebird Botanicals; Paw CBD, one of the most recognized CBD brands for pets; ATRx Labs functional mushroom supplements; and Oasis, a hemp-derived THC social beverage line. The Company is committed to quality, innovation, science, and transparency, with products distributed both online and through retail partners across the United States. To learn more, please visit www.cbdmd.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as "expect," "will," "believe," "designed to," "anticipate," and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements, including statements regarding the product's attributes and regulatory compliance, anticipated availability and distribution, consumer demand, third-party estimates of market size and category growth, and the Company's plans and ability to expand its product platform beyond THC. Forward-looking statements are based on management's current expectations and assumptions and are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties, including evolving federal and state regulation of hemp-derived THC products, that could cause actual results to differ materially, including those described in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement except as required by law.
Contacts
cbdMD, Inc.
Ronan Kennedy
Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer
As federal reclassification efforts advance and major U.S. exchanges open to compliant operators, cbdMD points to its position as an established, NYSE American–listed company in a maturing cannabinoid category
, /PRNewswire/ -- cbdMD, Inc. (NYSE American: YCBD), one of the nation's most recognized and trusted hemp-derived wellness companies, today welcomed the Administration's call urging Congress to ensure the fair treatment of hemp-derived products under federal law and requesting immediate action to revise federal hemp regulation to ensure fair treatment of hemp products under federal law.
In a letter to congressional leadership this week, the White House Office of Management and Budget identified hemp reform as a priority the Administration strongly supports. The request calls on Congress to ensure fair treatment of hemp-derived products by preserving access to appropriate full-spectrum CBD products, while preserving Congress's intent to restrict products that pose health risks. The Administration also urged Congress to adopt a responsible federal framework or, at minimum, extend the current implementation timeline so that lawmakers have time to get the policy right. The request builds on the President's earlier public statements urging lawmakers to protect access to the full-spectrum CBD products that millions of Americans rely on.
"We are encouraged to see the Administration advocating so clearly for responsible, science-backed hemp products that consumers depend on every day," said Ronan Kennedy, Chief Executive Officer of cbdMD. "cbdMD has always believed the future of this category is built on quality, transparency, and clear rules that distinguish responsible operators from bad actors. A federal framework that protects consumer access, promotes safety, and provides certainty for compliant companies is exactly what this industry and the people it serves deserve. We commend the policymakers who are working toward that outcome."
Separately, broader federal cannabis policy developments continue to draw investment, research, and institutional attention to the cannabinoid category. Notably, major U.S. exchanges have begun permitting the listing of the plan-touching operators that comply with federal, state and local medical cannabis framework. Although cannabis reclassification is distinct from the federal treatment of hemp-derived products, recent exchange-listing developments for compliant cannabis operators reflect a market that is moving toward greater legitimacy, transparency, and regulatory maturity. As an established hemp-derived wellness company with recognized brands, national distribution, and a listing on a national securities exchange, cbdMD believes it is well-positioned as the cannabinoid category moves toward greater maturity, transparency, and regulatory clarity.
"We believe cbdMD is purpose built for this next phase of the market," Kennedy added. "Our focus remains on serving our customers with trusted, efficacious products, supporting responsible regulation, and building long-term value for our shareholders as the category continues to evolve. Along the way, we will continue to evaluate the opportunities this evolving environment may present."
About cbdMD, Inc.
cbdMD, Inc. (NYSE American: YCBD) is a leading wellness company headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, with a portfolio of trusted hemp-derived and wellness brands, including cbdMD, Bluebird Botanicals, Paw CBD, ATRx Labs, and the Oasis line of hemp-derived THC beverages. The Company is committed to quality, science, and transparency across its product lines. For more information, visit cbdmd.com.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements regarding potential changes to the federal regulatory framework for hemp-derived products; the timing or outcome of legislative, administrative, or agency action; the evolution of U.S. capital markets and securities exchange listing practices for the cannabinoid category; and the Company's competitive position and potential opportunities. These statements are based on management's current expectations and are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties.
Such risks include, without limitation: that Congress or the Administration may not act, may act on a different timeline, or may adopt adverse regulation or regulation different from what is currently proposed; the potential impact of the statutory changes to the federal definition of hemp scheduled to take effect November 12, 2026; the fact that the ongoing federal cannabis reclassification proceedings concern marijuana, are separate from and do not directly govern the regulation of hemp-derived products, and may not conclude on the timeline or with the outcome the Company anticipates; that securities exchange practices regarding the listing of cannabis-related companies may change or may not develop as expected; and other risks described in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement except as required by law.
Contacts
cbdMD, Inc.
Ronan Kennedy
Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer
[email protected]
(704) 445-3064
Veteran consumer-wellness growth operator to lead multi-brand expansion across DTC, Amazon, retail, and new categories
, /PRNewswire/ -- cbdMD, Inc. (NYSE American: YCBD), one of the nation's leading and most trusted cannabinoid wellness companies and operator of the cbdMD, Bluebird Botanicals, and Paw CBD brands, along with its THC beverage brand Oasis, today announced the appointment of Wade Brown as Chief Marketing Officer.
Brown joined cbdMD in March 2025 and has been central to stabilizing the Company's brand portfolio and supporting its acquisition of Bluebird Botanicals. Most recently, cbdMD reported 19% year-over-year and 12% sequential revenue growth, supported by continued momentum in its core brands and the integration of Bluebird.
Prior to joining cbdMD, Brown held senior marketing and growth leadership roles across a range of consumer brands, including NatureWise, Vanity Planet, Inc Authority (prior to its acquisition by LegalZoom), First Tactical, Noble Outfitters, and Kevin's Naturals. His experience spans dietary supplements, beauty, online services, and omnichannel CPG, with deep expertise in ecommerce, Amazon, performance marketing, and brand portfolio growth.
"Wade has been instrumental in stabilizing our brands and bringing discipline to our marketing," said Ronan Kennedy, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer of cbdMD. "He's an operator, not just a marketer. Wade understands DTC, Amazon, retail, creative, CRM, and customer acquisition. As we sharpen our focus on health and wellness, his experience scaling consumer brands within and beyond hemp will be key to driving our next phase of growth."
As Chief Marketing Officer, Brown will report to the CEO and lead marketing and commercial growth across cbdMD's portfolio, including cbdMD, Paw CBD, Oasis, Bluebird Botanicals, and future brands. Spanning brand strategy, DTC and marketplace execution, retail and wholesale support, creative, CRM and retention, and product-launch strategy. His appointment supports cbdMD's evolution into a broader multi-brand wellness platform across CBD, pet, botanical, and functional wellness and adjacent consumer health categories, including the Company's clinical healthcare channel for hemp-derived cannabinoid products in value-based Medicare models.
"cbdMD has built real trust and a loyal customer base," said Brown. "CBD and hemp wellness remain a strong foundation, but the bigger opportunity is a multi-brand consumer wellness platform. Built on clear positioning, disciplined execution, and modern growth systems across DTC, Amazon, retail, and CRM. My focus is building that operating system and creating lasting value for our customers and shareholders."
About cbdMD, Inc.
cbdMD, Inc. (NYSE American: YCBD) is one of the leading and most highly trusted and recognized cannabidiol (CBD) brands with a comprehensive line of U.S. produced THC-free1 CBD products and an array of Farm Bill compliant Delta 9 products. To learn more about cbdMD as well as our other brands, please visit www.cbdmd.com, www.pawcbd.com, www.ATRxLabs.com, www.bluebirdbotanicals.com, or www.herbaloasis.com, follow cbdMD on Instagram and Facebook, or visit one of the thousands of retail outlets that carry cbdMD's products.
1THC-free is defined as below the level of detection using validated scientific analytical methods.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as "expect," "intend," "will," "anticipate," "believe," "position," "look to," and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the Company's strategy, expansion beyond hemp into broader health and wellness categories, anticipated growth, the expected contributions of its leadership team, and its clinical healthcare and other initiatives. Forward-looking statements are based on management's current expectations and assumptions and are subject to known and unknown risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially, including those described in the Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement except as required by law.
Contacts
cbdMD, Inc.
Ronan Kennedy
Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer
[email protected]
(704) 445-3064
Company brings one of the only combined clinical and toxicological safety dataset in the hemp-derived CBD category into a new provider channel as CMS activates cannabinoid access within value-based care models
, /PRNewswire/ -- cbdMD, Inc. (NYSE American: YCBD), a leader in science-driven cannabinoid products, today announced the launch of its clinical healthcare channel, positioning the Company to support physicians, health systems, and value-based care organizations as federal policy establishes structured pathways for hemp-derived cannabinoid products within Medicare programs.
On March 20, 2026, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) published operational guidance activating the Substance Access Beneficiary Engagement Incentive (BEI), an existing incentive mechanism within CMS Innovation Center models, to include eligible hemp-derived cannabinoid products for the first time. Effective April 1, 2026, participating accountable care organizations and oncology practices in select models, including the Enhancing Oncology Model (EOM) and ACO REACH, may furnish eligible hemp-derived products to Medicare patients as part of physician-supervised care. The upcoming LEAD Model also incorporates the BEI framework when it is expected to launch on January 1, 2027. Together these models encompass thousands of physicians and millions of aligned Medicare beneficiaries.
The BEI remains a limited, model-specific initiative, not a broad access or reimbursement program, and participating organizations independently determine supplier relationships.
"Healthcare is where this category has always needed to go," said Ronan Kennedy, Chief Executive Officer of cbdMD. "This is the inflection point. CMS has established a structured, physician-supervised framework for hemp-derived cannabinoids within Medicare, and the bar to participate credibly is high requiring clinical data, institutional-grade documentation and healthcare supply infrastructure. cbdMD has spent years preparing for such framework."
cbdMD is entering the clinical channel with a scientific and regulatory platform the Company believes is unmatched in the hemp-derived CBD category. To the Company's knowledge, no other hemp-derived CBD manufacturer has published both OECD-standard preclinical toxicology data and human randomized controlled trial data for its commercial product lines. That foundation includes:
Published preclinical safety data: A 90-day subchronic oral toxicity study conducted to OECD 408 guidelines, the international standard used in pharmaceutical safety assessment, demonstrating safety margins significantly above expected human dosing levels
Human clinical evidence: Data from an IRB-approved, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial confirming safety and tolerability in human subjects
GRAS regulatory status: Self-affirmed Generally Recognized As Safe (GRAS) dossiers supporting key product categories,the same safety standard applied to conventional food and supplement ingredients reviewed by the FDA
Healthcare-grade supply chain: Batch-level traceability, certificate of analysis documentation, and quality systems designed for institutional procurement and compliance review In parallel, cbdMD is developing a dedicated provider-focused product line with formulations, documentation, and labeling structured specifically for clinical environments, along with infrastructure to support multi-site health systems and value-based care organizations.
"We recognize physicians and health systems evaluating this category will not accept consumer-grade marketing claims or products without published safety data," said Sibyl Swift, Ph.D., member of board of directors and scientific consultant of cbdMD. "They require OECD-standard toxicology, human clinical data, drug interaction transparency, and documentation that can withstand institutional review. That evidence base does not exist broadly in this category, cbdMD has built it. That is where we are focused."
The Company is actively engaging accountable care organizations, oncology practices, and health systems as they evaluate implementation under the BEI and broader clinical integration of cannabinoid products. cbdMD believes that provider adoption in this channel will be driven by demonstrated safety, data transparency, and operational reliability; standards the Company has been building toward for years. The company is also pursuing research partnerships with healthcare organizations and academic institutions to generate real-world outcomes data on hemp CBD in physician-supervised Medicare settings.
cbdMD is also monitoring the FDA's recent submission of updated regulatory considerations for hemp-derived CBD products to the White House Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, which the Company views as part of a continued shift toward a more clearly defined, evidence-based federal framework for cannabinoid products.
Healthcare organizations interested in cbdMD's clinical channel, product documentation, or supply capabilities are encouraged to contact the Company directly.
Clinical channel inquiries: [email protected]
About the CMS Substance Access BEI The Substance Access Beneficiary Engagement Incentive, effective April 1, 2026, allows participating organizations in CMS Innovation Center models — including ACO REACH, the Enhancing Oncology Model, and the upcoming LEAD Model — to furnish eligible hemp-derived CBD products to Medicare patients through physician-supervised consultations. CMS does not reimburse product costs, does not designate preferred or approved suppliers, and does not cover products as a Medicare benefit. Participating organizations make independent clinical and procurement decisions.
About cbdMD, Inc. cbdMD, Inc. (NYSE American: YCBD) is a science-driven cannabinoid company offering a portfolio of hemp-derived CBD products under the cbdMD, Bluebird Botanicals, Paw CBD, and Herbal Oasis brands. The Company has invested in clinical research, toxicological safety studies, and GRAS regulatory dossiers, establishing what it believes is the most comprehensive published safety and clinical dataset in the U.S. hemp-derived CBD category. cbdMD products are available direct-to-consumer at cbdmd.com, through thousands of retail locations, and through the Company's newly launched clinical healthcare channel. Learn more at cbdmd.com.
Forward Looking Statements
This press release contains statements, estimates, forecasts, and projections regarding future performance and events that constitute "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Those statements include statements regarding expectations from evolving federal regulation, the development of cbdMD's clinical healthcare channel and platform, Medicare requirements, market acceptance of CBD clinical healthcare products and the ability of cbdMD to furnish eligible hemp-derived CBD products to Medicare patients. These statements may be identified by the use of words like "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "may," "plan," "will," "should," and "seek," and similar expressions and include any financial projections or estimates or pro forma financial information set forth herein. Prospective investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks and uncertainties and that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Important factors and risks that could cause actual results to differ materially from our expectations include, but are not limited to, participating organizations in CMS Innovation Center models acceptance of eligible hemp-derived CBD products to be furnished to Medicare patients; customer, professional healthcare provider and Medicare acceptance of our product offerings; and costs and expenses to develop a clinical healthcare channel and products, as well as those risks detailed in our filings with the SEC, including our most recent Form 10-K and other filings with the SEC.
Contact Information:
Investors:
cbdMD, Inc.
Ronan Kennedy
Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer
[email protected]
(704) 445-3064
CHARLOTTE, N.C., May 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- cbdMD, Inc. (NYSE American: YCBD), one of the nation's leading, highly trusted and widely recognized CBD companies, today announces that it will host a conference call at 4:20 p.m.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. , May 14, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- cbdMD, Inc. (NYSE American: YCBD), one of the nation's leading and most trusted CBD companies and operator of the cbdMD, Bluebird Botanicals, and Paw CBD brands, along with its THC beverage brand Oasis, today announced financial results for the second quarter of fiscal year 2026, ended March 31, 2026.
