Senate proposal threatens 300000 jobs and hemp market stability
The U.S. Hemp Roundtable has strongly condemned new Senate language that seeks to recriminalize hemp-derived products, warning it could dismantle America’s $28.4 billion hemp industry and endanger over 300,000 jobs. The organization says the move would devastate small businesses and farms nationwide while costing states an estimated $1.5 billion in tax revenue.
Although some lawmakers claim the measure protects non-intoxicating CBD products, the Roundtable argues that more than 90% of these products contain THC levels above the proposed limit of 0.4 mg per container. This change would criminalize seniors, veterans, and other consumers who rely on hemp-based wellness products, forcing them to seek unsafe alternatives.
In response, Senator Rand Paul of Kentucky has announced an emergency amendment to remove the hemp ban, earning widespread support across the hemp industry. His proposal is viewed as a vital step to protect farmers, entrepreneurs, and consumers from economic and health setbacks.
Should the controversial language pass, the hemp industry plans to fight back during the one-year moratorium. The Roundtable will work with lawmakers to create science-backed regulations that curb synthetic or misleading products, restrict youth access, and ensure safe manufacturing practices.
“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.”
Photo Credit: gettyimages-jessicahyde