$28 billion industry outlawed as Congress passes hemp THC ban

OG article by Chris Roberts

November 13, 2025

President Trump signed a spending bill averting shutdown, embedding a hemp THC ban that criminalizes most derivatives in 365 days, redefining hemp to ≤0.3% total THC (including THCA) on dry weight—closing 2018 Farm Bill gaps exploited for intoxicating products like THCA flower ($100M+ market) and synthetics (HHC, THC-P). This guts the $28.3 billion industry, forging odd alliances: cannabis firms, anti-legalization foes, law enforcement, health advocates, and alcohol lobbies.

House sponsor Rep. Andy Harris (R-MD) hailed it closing "unregulated intoxicating" sales at gas stations. Only two Republicans—Reps. Thomas Massie (KY) and Greg Steube (FL)—opposed, joining most Democrats; Massie decried tactics. Trump's support confirmed.

Impacts hit multistate operators (e.g., Curaleaf's hemp line), retailers (Circle K, Total Wine), and thousands of businesses, including Kentucky's regulated ones—sparking order cancellations despite 2026 planning. Cornbread Hemp's Jim Higdon: "365 days until CBD becomes Schedule I; pass Energy & Commerce fix now for crop certainty." Without, "rational cannabis laws vanish."

Critics note enforcement ambiguity—like state cannabis programs' federal limbo—but 280E taxes loom, worsening banking/tax woes. Hemp expert Rod Kight: Chaos in gray areas, amplifying marijuana hurdles. ATACH's Chris Lindsey backed ban for distinguishing naturals/synthetics, eyeing unified rules. Sen. Paul's removal bid failed amid Democratic defections.