By Jamie Martin
The U.S. Hemp Roundtable has voiced strong opposition to a new Senate proposal that would effectively criminalize hemp-derived products, threatening thousands of farms, small businesses, and livelihoods. The group estimates that if enacted, the legislation would eliminate up to 95% of the U.S. hemp industry, costing states $1.5 billion in annual tax revenue.
The proposal places a strict THC cap of 0.4 mg per container, a move the Roundtable says would make 90% of current non-intoxicating CBD products illegal. This change would limit access for veterans, seniors, and other individuals who rely on hemp-based supplements for health and wellness.
Senator Rand Paul has stepped in with an emergency amendment aimed at removing the restrictive hemp language from the bill. His initiative is backed by the U.S. Hemp Roundtable and industry partners who believe responsible regulation—not prohibition—is the way forward.
If the Senate proceeds with the current proposal, hemp leaders plan to use the one-year moratorium to advocate for balanced, science-driven regulations. These would target synthetic products, restrict youth access, and promote safe manufacturing standards.
“Our industry is being used as a pawn as leaders work to reopen the government. Recriminalizing hemp will force American farms and businesses to close and disrupt the wellbeing of countless Americans who depend on hemp,” said Jonathan Miller, U.S. Hemp Roundtable General Counsel. “We support Senator Rand Paul’s efforts to push back on this language and will continue to fight alongside him for a regulated, safe, and robust hemp industry.”
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Categories: National