House Farm Bill 2024: Major Wins and Looming Threats for the Hemp Industry
MAY 17, 2024 — The House Agriculture Committee has unveiled the much-anticipated 2024 Farm Bill, offering a blend of promising advancements and potential risks for the hemp industry. While the draft includes several significant victories, the possibility of a harmful amendment is causing concern among industry advocates.
Critical Developments for Hemp in the 2024 Farm Bill
The draft Farm Bill addresses several priorities advocated by the Roundtable and a coalition of 33 hemp non-profit organizations. Here are the major highlights:
Reduced Regulatory Burdens for Hemp Farmers
The bill allows the USDA, states, and tribes to reduce regulatory requirements for "industrial hemp" farmers. This includes easing testing requirements for hemp grown for fiber, grain, oil, non-cannabinoid compounds, immature plants, and research purposes. The focus on "performance-based" testing aligns with industry recommendations.
Modification of the Felony Drug Ban
The bill removes the felony drug ban for industrial hemp growers. However, it does not extend this relief to farmers cultivating hemp for cannabinoid extraction, a limitation not present in the Senate proposal.
Expansion of THC Testing Laboratories
The bill ends the DEA's monopoly on registering labs for THC testing in hemp plants, allowing the USDA to issue accreditation certificates. This change could streamline the testing process and make it more accessible.
Protection of Hemp Product Definitions
The current bill does not change the definition of "hemp" in ways that could ban popular hemp products, countering efforts by some groups to restrict the market.
Potential Amendment Threatens Hemp Industry
Despite these positive aspects, the industry faces a looming threat from a potential amendment that could redefine "hemp" to ban products with any detectable level of THC. This measure, aimed at intoxicating products like Delta-8 THC, could inadvertently ban a large portion of non-intoxicating CBD products.
Lobbyists are actively working to counter these threats, dealing with constant rumors and draft language circulating through Congress. The Agriculture Committee's meeting on Thursday, the 23rd, will be critical as they mark up the bill and consider amendments.
Call to Action for Hemp Industry Stakeholders
Industry stakeholders need to stay vigilant and be ready to mobilize against any harmful amendments. If necessary, a coordinated email campaign and other efforts will be launched to protect the industry's interests.
The 2024 Farm Bill represents a crucial moment for the hemp industry, with significant advancements tempered by potential setbacks. Continued advocacy and engagement are essential to ensure a favorable outcome.
Stay Informed and Engaged
Stay tuned for updates on the 2024 Farm Bill and be prepared to support efforts to safeguard the hemp industry's progress. Your involvement is crucial in shaping the future of hemp regulation.
By staying informed and engaged, the hemp community can work together to ensure that the 2024 Farm Bill supports a thriving and sustainable hemp industry.
