Repeal the Federal Ban on Hemp Products (UPDATED 8/4)

Updates

August 4, 2026: The Senate is considering a provision in a government funding Continuing Resolution (CR) to delay the forthcoming prohibition of intoxicating hemp products until Dec. 11, 2026. The delay would offer lawmakers an additional month to develop a plan to regulate intoxicating hemp products instead of shutting down the $28 billion industry completely.

In November, Congress passed a federal funding package to end the government shutdown that included a provision that would functionally ban all hemp-derived THC products nationwide on Nov. 13, 2026. The language, tucked into the FY 2026 Agriculture appropriations bill, closes a 2018 Farm Bill loophole to address concerns about unregulated intoxicating hemp compounds in consumer products. Industry experts warn the provision’s cap on the allowable amount of THC in a product is drastically low and will outlaw 95% of all retail products, including gummies, drinks, and topical creams.

This provision threatens a $28 billion hemp industry, more than 300,000 jobs, and countless Americans who rely on hemp products for wellness, pain relief, and sleep support. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) called the legislation a “blanket ban” that will override the regulatory framework for hemp products already in place in many states and suffocate farmers’ livelihoods. Cannabis industry representatives warn the prohibition could lead to a rise in black-market sales of dangerously unregulated hemp products.

Congress must pass new legislation replacing this ill-conceived ban with clear and reasonable regulations, such as age restrictions, product safety testing, and labeling and licensing requirements. A responsible regulatory framework will protect consumers while still supporting legitimate farmers and businesses. Urge Congress to introduce and support federal legislation to regulate, not ban, hemp-derived products and prevent the destruction of an entire legal industry.