November 14, 2025
After successfully opposing state-level hemp restrictions earlier this year, the Texas hemp industry now faces a significant federal challenge. On November 13, 2025, President Trump signed into law a spending bill that includes provisions substantially restricting the legal hemp market that has operated since the 2018 Farm Bill.
What Happened?
The hemp ban language was included in a government funding package designed to end the federal government shutdown, limiting opportunities for separate consideration or amendment.
Timeline of Congressional Action
November 10 – Senate Vote
The Senate passed the appropriations package 60-40. Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY) proposed an amendment to remove the hemp restriction language, but a motion to table his amendment passed 76-24.
- Texas Sen. Ted Cruz voted against tabling the amendment, stating that hemp regulation “should rest with each individual state.”
- Sen. John Cornyn voted to table it.
November 12 – House Vote
The House voted 222-209 to pass the funding package. Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) filed a similar amendment, but the House Rules Committee did not advance it for consideration.
November 13 – Presidential Signature
President Trump signed the legislation, with the White House confirming support for the hemp restriction provisions.
What the New Law Does
The legislation redefines hemp in ways that affect most current products:
- THC Limit: Products may contain no more than 0.4 milligrams of total THC per container
- Natural Cannabinoids Only: Restricts cannabinoids to those naturally produced by the cannabis plant
- Total THC Measurement: Measures both THC and THCA together
- Implementation Timeline: Takes effect November 13, 2026 – 1 year from signing
The Alcohol Industry Position
On November 10, 2025, several alcohol industry trade associations sent a letter to senators opposing Sen. Paul’s amendment to remove the restriction language.
The American Distilled Spirits Alliance, Beer Institute, Distilled Spirits Council of the U.S., Wine America, and Wine Institute urged senators to vote against the Paul amendment. Their letter stated they were “ready to work with Congress and the Administration to enact meaningful regulations” after the current provisions take effect.
Notably, a separate coalition of over 50 alcohol distributors sent their own letter opposing the restrictions, noting that “hemp products have created jobs, driven new investment, and helped us meet changing consumer demand.”
What Stakeholders Can Do
The Texas Hemp Business Council recommends:
- Engage with elected representatives: Contact your congressional delegation to share how these provisions affect your business, farm, or employment.
- Stay informed: Follow legislative developments and participate in advocacy initiatives.
- Support unified action: Collaboration among farmers, manufacturers, retailers, and consumers is essential.
- Join THBC: Strengthen collective advocacy efforts and donate to THBC if you are able. We will be using funds for lobby efforts, social campaigns, and PR.
Moving Forward Together
The one-year implementation timeline provides an opportunity for legislative solutions. Restrictions do not take effect until November 2026.
The Texas Hemp Business Council will work with congressional allies, state officials, industry associations, and advocacy organizations during the next year to pursue regulatory frameworks that address safety concerns while preserving a viable hemp market.
We encourage all stakeholders to remain engaged as legislative solutions are developed.
Working together for Texas hemp.
