Congress Prohibits Most Hemp-Based THC Products in Shutdown Agreement
The recent federal spending agreement includes a significant provision that bans most hemp-derived products containing THC. This decision, made by lawmakers to prevent a government shutdown, reverses earlier attempts by Texas Republicans to impose similar regulations at the state level.
Details of the Federal Ban on THC Products
Under the new law, which was signed by President Donald Trump, products containing more than 0.4 milligrams of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) will be prohibited. THC is the psychoactive component found in marijuana.
This provision will primarily impact consumable hemp products across the nation, leading to concerns that it will devastate Texas’s $8 billion hemp industry and jeopardize thousands of jobs related to THC products.
Legislative Background and Controversy
The measure was added to a broader funding package for the Department of Agriculture. Proponents argue that this ban closes a loophole from the 2018 Farm Bill, which allowed hemp-related businesses to flourish without sufficient federal oversight.
- The ban is set to take effect one year after the legislation is enacted.
- Supporters contend it will eliminate unregulated high-potency products flooding markets.
- Opponents, including some Texas lawmakers, claim it encroaches on state rights and local industry interests.
Divided Opinions Among Texas Lawmakers
Opinions were divided among Texas Republicans during the lead-up to the vote. Senator John Cornyn supported the ban, while Senator Ted Cruz voted for an amendment aimed at removing it, advocating state-level regulation of hemp and marijuana.
Some Texas House members expressed dissatisfaction with the hemp ban yet ultimately prioritized reopening the government over opposing the funding package.
Impact on Texas Hemp Industry
The ban has reignited debates within the Texas government concerning THC product regulations. Earlier this year, a legislative proposal to ban these products was vetoed by Governor Greg Abbott, who called for stricter regulations instead. The legislation passed in Texas in 2019 legalized hemp products, but it failed to set clear limits on all THC derivatives.
The state’s hemp market, which supports over 8,000 retailers of THC-infused products, is now facing significant challenges due to this federal intervention.
Reactions from Advocates and Industry Leaders
The Texas Cannabis Policy Center has expressed disappointment over Congress’s decision, arguing that it threatens the livelihoods of those dependent on hemp products. Heather Fazio, the organization’s director, stated that the federal presence banning hemp would be counterproductive, urging a regulated approach instead.
The Texas Hemp Business Council issued a statement emphasizing the critical nature of hemp to the American economy and vowed to pursue all available avenues to challenge these legislative measures.
Conclusion
The recent congressional decision to prohibit most hemp-derived THC products marks a significant shift in federal policy with extensive implications for the industry. Lawmakers and advocates alike are now focused on how to navigate this new regulatory landscape following the approval of the spending package.
