Hemp Industry Faces Uncertainty Amid Government Shutdown and Policy Disputes

A last-minute provision in a federal spending bill aiming to restrict hemp-derived products like CBD and THC has caused disquiet among Republicans, especially in hemp-producing Kentucky, threatening the bill's passage and the end of the government shutdown. The provision, which bans products with more than 0.4 mg of THC per container, is opposed by some lawmakers and industry leaders who argue it could lead to an unregulated market and harm consumers. The bill is expected to pass with some opposition, and advocates hope to replace the ban with more thoughtful regulations.