Will Congress Ban Hemp Products? Here’s What We Know

Will Congress Ban Hemp Products? Here’s What We Know

If you've been following hemp news lately, you may have seen headlines about a new federal proposal that could ban most hemp-derived products — including THCA flower, full-spectrum CBD, CBN, CBG, and many Delta-9 products — essentially anything with even a trace amount of THC or other cannabinoids. Industrial hemp used for rope, grain, or fiber would still be allowed under the proposal, but that’s a very small part of the hemp industry today.

Here’s what’s happening, and why it matters.

A Quiet Move with Big Consequences

The hemp industry was federally legalized in 2018 through the Farm Bill. But right now, Congress is working on an appropriations bill — part of the federal budget process — and language has been added that would redefine hemp and ban any product with a “quantifiable” amount of THC. That includes trace amounts found in almost every full-spectrum product on the market.

If passed, this could:

  • Ban THCA flower, even if it's non-intoxicating in its raw form
  • Ban all Delta-8, Delta-10, and Delta-9 consumable products derived from hemp
  • Possibly ban full-spectrum CBD tinctures and gummies

The language already passed the House Appropriations Committee, and a Senate version is expected to include the same. This isn’t a state law or a stand-alone bill that could quietly die in committee. It’s attached to a must-pass federal spending bill — and that’s what makes it real.

What Happens Next?

We don’t know yet. The Senate has not voted on its version. The language may still change, and the hemp industry is actively pushing back — encouraging lawmakers to either remove or revise the proposal.

So we’re not panicking. But we are watching very closely. This detailed Marijuana Moment article explores how industry groups (including alcohol wholesalers) are pushing back — and where key senators and representatives stand.

Why It Matters

This isn’t just about our business. It’s about the people we serve — veterans using cannabinoids for pain and PTSD, seniors seeking alternatives to opioids, and adults who want safe, legal access to non-intoxicating plant-based products.

Interestingly, one of the loudest voices pushing back is the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America — a major alcohol industry group. While cannabis beverages may compete with beer, many wholesalers now distribute hemp-derived drinks and see them as a growth category. In fact, these drinks are growing in popularity here at our store, too. It’s not just about regulation — it’s about keeping access to products customers want, and doing it responsibly.

It’s also worth noting that pressure to restrict hemp often comes from multiple directions. In states with tightly regulated marijuana markets, hemp is seen as competition — and some cannabis lobbyists have supported bans on hemp-derived products for that reason. Meanwhile, pharmaceutical companies may prefer a model where cannabinoids are only available through FDA-approved channels. And yes, cultural fears around “getting high” still echo the old Reefer Madness era, even when today’s consumers are adults making informed choices. These concerns are often framed as safety issues — but there’s also a lot of money and market control at stake.

We're doing everything we can to stay informed and engaged. If this moves forward, we’ll let you know how you can speak up.

👉 You can read the full article here:
GOP Senator Who Helped Legalize Hemp Now Pushing Ban

Thanks for staying informed and being part of this community.

PhenomWell Hemp Dispensary

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