New Amendment Threatens Hemp Industry: A Step Backwards 2024
What is happening?
In the ongoing deliberations over the U.S. Farm Bill, a new proposed amendment, called The Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2024, could drastically change the hemp industry as we know it. This revision, filed by U.S. Rep. Mary Miller, seeks to ban all ingestible hemp products containing any level of THC, effectively eliminating most of the current hemp-derived cannabinoid market.
How would it impact the industry?
If passed, the new amendment would redefine “hemp” under federal law to exclude any products with detectable amounts of THC, including THCA — a non-intoxicating precursor that converts to THC when heated.
This change would outlaw products containing delta-8 THC and other similar cannabinoids, which are synthesized or manufactured from hemp but mimic the effects of THC. According to the U.S. Hemp Roundtable, this could lead to a federal prohibition of 90-95% of all hemp products currently on the market.
When was this amendment proposed?
The new amendment was filed on May 2024, just ahead of a crucial markup hearing in the House Committee on Agriculture.
Where is this happening?
This legislative action is taking place within the U.S. Congress, specifically within the House Committee on Agriculture. The modification pertains to the nationwide regulation of hemp-derived products under the federal Farm Bill.
Who is involved?
Rep. Mary Miller, a Republican from Illinois, introduced the amendment. It has drawn significant attention from various stakeholders, including the U.S. Hemp Roundtable and other industry lobbyists and the U.S. Cannabis Council, which represents regulated marijuana industries that favor the amendment.
The WHY?
Rep. Miller argues that the amendment is necessary to close loopholes that have allowed the marketing and sale of intoxicating hemp products, which she claims are often targeted toward teenagers and children.
The new amendment aims to regulate these products similarly to how marijuana is currently regulated, ostensibly to protect consumers from unintentional intoxication and ensure that only non-intoxicating hemp products remain legal.
This restructuring allows for a clearer understanding of each aspect of the proposed amendment and its potential impacts on the hemp industry and consumers.
Do you want this to change? Contact your representatives now to oppose the restrictive amendment to the Farm Bill and support the responsible regulation of hemp https://www.house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative
The information provided is for educational purposes only and not legal advice. We encourage you to consult a legal expert to address your specific circumstances.
