The hemp clock is ticking. Lawmakers have less than six months before a new law changing the federal definition of hemp is set to take effect. If implemented as written, the change would likely remove most hemp-derived products, including full-spectrum CBD oil and THC beverages, from the legal market. Now, three separate hemp amendments have been filed in Congress meant to preserve most of the industry.
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All three Republican-led proposals were filed as amendments to a broader agricultural spending bill. The first would delay implementation of the November restrictions for two years, potentially giving regulators, lawmakers, and industry stakeholders time to develop a new federal hemp framework.
The second proposal would block the government from dedicating budget to implementing the November change. The measure would not repeal the underlying law but would prevent agencies from spending federal funds to enforce it. In practice, the proposal could function as a temporary delay.
The third amendment is by far the most comprehensive on hemp policy. It seeks to preserve much of the current hemp market through regulation, while cracking down on controversial synthesized cannabinoids like HHC and THC-O. The measure would allow CBD products to remain on the market, establish a federal excise tax and minimum-age requirement for hemp products, and raise THC thresholds that could help farmers continue to meet the definition of hemp.
The House Rules Committee is scheduled to meet this week to consider the legislation. Previous amendments to the 2026 Farm Bill meant to help save hemp failed to advance.
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Meanwhile, a separate bill that would delay the pending hemp ban continues to move through Congress, though time is running short. Legislation that would regulate hemp nationwide is also being considered.
Many remain skeptical that Congress will be able to pass hemp-related legislation prior to the November deadline. Representatives of the pro-cannabis nonprofit Marijuana Policy Project previously said it’s “unlikely” that Congress will take action. Sen. Ted Cruz, R-TX, said separately that hemp advocates face an “uphill battle” in Washington.
President Donald Trump has called on Congress to address hemp policy, specifically urging lawmakers to preserve access to full-spectrum CBD products. The Trump administration implemented a pilot program earlier this year, allowing some Medicare beneficiaries to receive hemp products from providers at no cost.
The fate of the American hemp industry is still unknown. But if any of the aforementioned amendments make it into the broader legislation, operators and advocates may get a lifeline.
