365 Days to Regulate, Not Ban: The Future of Hemp in the U.S.

The hemp industry just took a hard hit, but it’s far from over.

Language quietly added to the federal government reopening bill would ban more than 95% of all CBD and hemp products. Only items with less than 0.4 mg of THC per container would remain legal, a limit that almost no real-world CBD product meets.

Thankfully, with the help of Senator Rand Paul, we secured a critical concession:

We have 365 days before this ban takes effect.

That’s one full year to fight for regulation, not prohibition, and we fully intend to use it.

At 502 Hemp, we stand with the Kentucky Hemp Association (KHA) and the U.S. Hemp Roundtable, working alongside federal lawmakers to draft legislation that regulates hemp responsibly while keeping products accessible to Americans who rely on them.

Why We’re Not Defeated

Although this language is a blow, there are two reasons we remain confident:

1. Misinformation Fueled the Ban

Senators were told this bill protects CBD, but the reality is it bans nearly all non-intoxicating hemp products.

They were assured this would target synthetic THC products marketed to children. In truth, prohibition without regulation will push unsafe products into black markets, hurting both businesses and consumers.

Once these facts are clear, lawmakers are likely to support a common-sense solution for hemp.

2. A Better Bill is Already in Motion

Rep. Morgan Griffith (R-VA) plans to introduce legislation that focuses on strong regulation instead of prohibition, including:

Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs)
Truthful labeling and product transparency
Bans on synthetic THC
Measures to protect children from exposure

In the Senate, Sens. Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley will reintroduce regulatory legislation through the HELP Committee. The Roundtable and KHA will continue lobbying both chambers, but your voice matters too.

What This Means for Consumers

If you rely on hemp products whether for pain relief, anxiety management, or overall wellness we are fighting to keep your products legal and accessible.

You can help:
Call your federal legislators and ask them to support regulation, not bans. Millions of Americans depend on hemp for health and wellness — your voice matters.