Federal Action Center
Tell Congress to Support 2 Year Extension & Protect Consumer Access to Hemp Products
The hemp industry faces complete collapse in November unless Congress listens to the will of the people and passes a 2-year extension that would replace the current industry-killing language. An extension provides the necessary runway to establish real safeguards and comprehensive regulations that protect consumers while preserving American hemp businesses.
We want to thank Congressman Andy Barr (R-KY) and Congresswoman Angie Craig (D-MN) for introducing bipartisan legislation to establish a comprehensive federal regulatory framework for hemp-derived cannabinoid products. Their leadership shows that responsible hemp regulation isn't a partisan issue. This bill is an important step toward a regulatory structure that protects consumers, gives certainty to responsible businesses, and preserves the economic opportunities created by the 2018 Farm Bill.
While we support Congressman Barr's efforts, we're simply out of time to put a comprehensive market structure in place before the November 12 deadline. The entire hemp industry supports delaying the ban to give Congress the time it needs to build a real regulatory framework. Our best shot at securing that extension is the must-pass Continuing Resolution (CR) funding the government through December 4 — and the White House has formally asked Congress to fix this before the November deadline.
Where things stand
November 12 deadlineThe House passed its version of the CR on July 21st, without the extension, because it was drafted before the White House's request. The Senate is now writing its own version and negotiating with the House on what makes it into the final bill.
These negotiations are fluid, and there's a real risk this gets punted until September if talks stall — which is exactly why we need to act now.
Why This Matters
Congress has had years to address FDA's failure to regulate hemp. Instead of solving the problem, a few lawmakers are trying to eliminate the industry altogether.
If Section 781 becomes effective, businesses will close, products people rely on will disappear, and American farmers will be left behind.
