All articles tagged with #hemp industry
The US Congress has included a provision in the recent bill ending the government shutdown to ban THC-infused drinks and snacks derived from hemp, set to take effect in November 2026, threatening the $24 billion hemp industry and related businesses like breweries, despite ongoing debates and potential regulatory adjustments.
Senators rejected an amendment by Rand Paul to protect Kentucky's hemp industry from new regulations, on a 76-24 vote, as Congress moves closer to ending the government shutdown. The vote highlights ongoing debates over hemp regulation, with key figures like Mitch McConnell supporting stricter rules to curb intoxicating hemp products, while industry advocates and some Democrats oppose these measures, fearing they could destroy the industry. The shutdown deal is progressing towards final approval, with legislative negotiations continuing on related issues like cryptocurrency regulation and federal agency appointments.
The Senate is expected to vote on a deal to end the government shutdown, with key debates over hemp industry regulations and amendments, notably from Sen. Rand Paul. The legislation includes provisions that could impact hemp production, sparking opposition from industry advocates and some senators. Meanwhile, political leaders are maneuvering to pass the funding package, with discussions about regulatory reforms for cryptocurrencies and internal party dynamics also underway.
Sen. Rand Paul is blocking the Senate shutdown-ending bill over an amendment targeting Kentucky's hemp industry, demanding a vote to preserve the status quo, which could delay the bill's passage as Senate leaders race to end the 41-day government shutdown.
Texas has implemented a law banning the sale of THC-laced vapes and disposable vaporizers, including those made in adversarial countries like China, while allowing the possession of low-dose hemp-derived THC products. The law targets retailers, with penalties for non-compliance, but possession remains legal if within limits. Ongoing legislative debates aim to further regulate or ban all intoxicating hemp products, with disagreements between state leaders potentially delaying broader restrictions.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott vetoed a bill that would have banned intoxicating hemp-derived THC products, citing legal and regulatory concerns, which was welcomed by the hemp industry and advocates for medical use, while highlighting ongoing debates over cannabis regulation at state and federal levels.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott vetoed a bill that would have banned consumable THC products, instead calling for a regulatory approach to address public safety concerns, which has led to political clashes with Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and ongoing debates over hemp industry regulation.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott faces pressure from both sides over a bill to ban THC products, with industry advocates urging a veto due to public safety and economic concerns, while political allies push for the law's enactment. Abbott has until 20 days after the legislative session to sign or veto the bill, amid significant lobbying and public petitions.
Business owners in Iowa are concerned about a bill imposing stricter regulations on hemp-infused products, which is headed to the governor's desk. The bill includes limits on THC content and age restrictions, but owners argue that the proposed limits are so low that most of their products would become illegal. They express worry about the potential impact on their livelihoods and the industry as a whole.
A congressional committee held a hearing to address the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) inaction on developing regulations for hemp-derived CBD as food items or dietary supplements. Lawmakers criticized the FDA for not using its existing authority to regulate CBD products and called for clear guidance and certainty in the market. The hemp industry has been struggling due to the lack of regulations, which has allowed potentially unsafe products to flood the market. Witnesses at the hearing emphasized the need for federal regulation to ensure safety standards and protect consumers. Bipartisan lawmakers have introduced bills to provide a pathway for the regulation of hemp derivatives like CBD.