← Latest briefing

Business & Finance

Hemp businesses lobby Congress as federal THC ban faces delayed deadline

A spending bill signed by Donald Trump delayed the restriction until December, according to ABC News.

The short version

  • President Donald Trump signed a short-term funding measure that postponed a federal ban on hemp THC products from Nov. 12 to Dec. 11.[ABC News]
  • The pending restriction imposes a 0.4-milligram limit per container, which industry advocates warn would eliminate even non-impairing CBD items like topical lotions.[ABC News]
  • Whitney Economics estimates the ban could cut retail revenues by $28.3 billion and displace roughly 225,000 jobs, while some producers have already suspended operations.[ABC News]

Key facts

  • President Donald Trump signed a stopgap government funding measure that moved the enforcement date of the hemp THC ban from Nov. 12 to Dec. 11.[ABC News]
  • According to a Whitney Economics report, the prohibition threatens to displace 225,000 jobs, reduce retail sales by $28.3 billion, and lower state sales tax potential by $2.1 billion.[ABC News]
  • U.S. Hemp Roundtable general counsel Jonathan Miller stated that the 0.4-milligram limit would extend to non-impairing CBD topicals.[ABC News]
  • Cornbread Hemp anticipates generating $65 million this year, employs 105 individuals, and distributes hemp beverages across 18 states.[ABC News]
  • Wisconsin-based Drinkin' Buds halted production, and co-founder Matt Swanson removed himself from the company payroll.[ABC News]

What remains uncertain

  • It is uncertain whether Congress will act to establish a regulatory framework before the Dec. 11 deadline or permit the 0.4-milligram limit to take effect.[ABC News]

Sources

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.