THC Hemp Ban: What's Next?

U.S. Capitol Photo credit Wikapedia

With the THC Hemp Ban set to take affect in just 10 months the industry and consumers alike find themselves asking, "what's next?"

Background

A THC Hemp ban was passed by the government and is set to take affect 11/12/2026. The bill will close the loophole that allowed THCa products to be produced and sold by updating the defenition of the 0.3% Total THC testing requirements to include THCa, which was previously outlined by the USDA final rule. The updated Total THC definition will include other intoxicating cannabinoids that were not initially covered under the 2018 farm bill, like Delta 8 and similar cannabinoids yet to be outlined in the total allowed amounts. The ban also adds a 0.4 mg THC cap per package which is anticipated to impact many hemp products. See our prior blog to find out which products will be affected: Does the 2025 THC Hemp Ban Affect CBD?

What can I do about the hemp ban?

One of the most effective actions you can take to help combat the Hemp Ban is to share your personal story. This involves not only discussing your experiences with hemp,

but also articulating how the ban will affect your life and others around you. It is essential to share your story with friends and family, and your local community to gain support and amplify your message. You can start by using this basic outline from the IHGA.

In today's digital age, utilizing social media platforms can significantly enhance your reach. By posting your story online, you can engage a broader audience and encourage others to share their experiences as well. This collective sharing can create a powerful narrative that highlights the positive aspects of hemp and the negative implications of the ban. Crafting posts that resonate emotionally, using relevant hashtags #SaveHemp #HempBan, can draw attention to the issue and inspire action among your followers. Be sure to tag your community leaders, and legislators as well. As an IHGA sponsor we will be collecting 30-60 second videos to help amplify your message. Contact us to make an appointment to stop by the farm for filming, or send a copy of your recording to our email, and fill out this form.

However, the most crucial aspect of sharing your story is to communicate directly with your legislators. It is vital to convey your experiences and the reasons why the Hemp Ban should be reconsidered. Writing letters, making phone calls, or scheduling meetings with your representatives can create a direct line of communication that emphasizes the importance of this issue. When legislators hear personal stories from their constituents, they are more likely to understand the real-world implications of their policies and may be motivated to take action. You can urge them to support any of the legislation listed below. By articulating your narrative clearly and passionately, you can contribute to the growing movement to dismantle the barriers imposed by the impending Hemp Ban.

Federal Legislation

Here is current federal legislation that can help combat the THC Hemp Ban, we will do our best to keep this information updated throughout the year.

HR 6209 - American Hemp Protection Act of 2025

Introduced: 11/20/2025

Sponsors: House Represntative Nancy Mace (R-South Carolina). Thomas Massie (R-Kentucky), Zoe Lofgren (D-California), and James Baird (R-Indiana), signed on as original co-sponsors for this bill.

• This bill will reverse the THC Hemp Ban by completely striking Section 781 from the Continuing Resolution.

• Congress attempted to strike section 781 via amendment of the CR prior to passing with low support.

HR 7010 - To amend the Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agency Appropriations Act, 2026, to delay the implementation of amendments made by such Act to the hemp production provisions of the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946.

Introduced: 01/12/2026

Sponsors: U.S. House Rep. James Baird, R-Indiana

• This bill will extend the THC Hemp Ban implementation date from Section 781 of the Continuing Resolution by 2 years giving Congress time to pass legislation regulating hemp derived THC.

• Hemp Industry & Farmers of America (HIFA), Illinois Hemp Growers Assosiation (IHGA), and other industry supporters are currently in DC advocating for support and sponsers for this bill.

S 3474 - Cannabinoid Safety and Regulation Act (CSRA) of 2025

Introduced: 12/15/2025

Sponsers: U.S. Sens. Ron Wyden (D-Oregon) and Jeff Merkley (D-Oregon)

• This bill defines and regulates Hemp Cannabinoids under the FDA enacting saftey regulations for packaging, manufacturing, and distribution.

• Sets realistic plant limits of 5 mg THC per dose, with beverage limits of 10 mg per package, and 50 mg per package for edibles, inhailables and topicals.

• Some aspects of FDA regulation may be unattainable for small producers.