Hold on to your hemp hats, because we’ve got some juicy updates on the upcoming 2023 Farm Bill. If you thought legislative sessions were dull, think again! It’s been a whirlwind of last-minute amendments, quickfire votes, and high-stakes lobbying, all to determine the fate of the booming D8 products industry. Big Tobacco, lobbyists, and even grassroots engagement – it’s a battle royale out there! So, buckle up and get ready for some farm bill drama that would make a reality TV show blush. Let’s dive into the rollercoaster ride that is hemp politics, shall we?
We are dedicated to advocating for the industry and staying updated on the latest developments in legislative sessions. Recently, we faced a real eye-opener in Georgia, where a bill containing hemp language previously killed in another bill was being pushed through on the final day of the legislative session. Pro-Hemp Groups had to act swiftly to defeat this last-minute amendment, showcasing the challenges and urgency we face in protecting the industry.
The Battle for Hemp Is Not Over
The 2023 Farm Bill is currently being debated in Congress, and while there is no firm language to discuss at this point, it is expected to address the issue of Delta-8 (D8), Delta-10 (D10), and other cannabinoid variants, which were not mentioned in the 2018 Farm Bill. This presents an opportunity for the industry to continue flourishing but also poses potential risks as new regulations, testing requirements, certifications, and taxes may be imposed on THC products. This period is critical and could have significant consequences for the vaping industry and cannabinoid products as a whole.
Lobbying efforts from various groups with different perspectives, including those who want to legalize all cannabinoids and those who want to ban them all, will shape the outcome of the 2023 Farm Bill. Big Tobacco’s influence in shaping regulations to favor their interests is also a concern. It is estimated that millions of dollars will need to be spent to protect the industry in Washington, D.C., with a PR blitz, lobby firms, and grassroots engagement being essential strategies for advocacy.
Stay Updated on Hemp Industry Developments
The hemp industry has not had time to rest, and recent events can have significant impacts on business operations. Two notable developments to watch are Georgia House Bill HB458, which aims to ban hemp-derived THC, and Florida Bills SB 1676 and HB 1475, proposing stricter regulations on hemp production.
Even facing increasing scrutiny from regulatory agencies, as seen in the recent decision by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to classify Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC-X as Schedule 1 controlled substances. This decision has raised concerns among hemp businesses that manufacture and sell Delta-8 and Delta-9 THC-X products, as it could potentially impact their legal status and marketability. Staying abreast of recent events and developments is crucial for hemp businesses to make informed decisions and adapt to the changing hemp industry landscape.
What is the Farm Bill?
At its core, the Farm Bill is designed to support and regulate the agricultural industry in the United States. It is typically renewed every five years and covers a wide range of policies. It provides funding and resources for various programs and initiatives aimed at helping farmers with commodity price support, crop insurance, conservation practices, rural development, and nutrition assistance programs, among others.
One of the key aspects of the Farm Bill is its role in shaping the nation’s food and nutrition policies. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), also known as food stamps, is a significant component of the Farm Bill. It provides critical assistance to low-income individuals and families to purchase food and improve their nutrition. The Farm Bill also includes provisions for school meals, nutrition education, and other nutrition-related programs.
In addition to food and nutrition policies, the Farm Bill also addresses conservation and environmental issues. It includes programs aimed at promoting sustainable farming practices, protecting natural resources, and supporting land and water conservation efforts. These programs help farmers adopt practices that promote soil health, water quality, biodiversity, and other environmental goals.
The Farm Bill includes provisions for rural development, such as funding for infrastructure projects, business development, and community development initiatives. These programs are aimed at improving the economic viability and quality of life in rural communities across the country.
2018 Farm Bill: Changing a Market
The passage of the 2018 Farm Bill was a significant milestone for the hemp industry, bringing about sweeping changes that have had a profound impact on the market. Prior to the Farm Bill, hemp was classified as a Schedule I controlled substance, which severely limited its cultivation, production, and sale. However, the 2018 Farm Bill removed hemp from the list of controlled substances, legalizing its cultivation and opening up new opportunities for farmers, businesses, and consumers alike.
One of the most significant changes brought about by the 2018 Farm Bill was the establishment of a clear definition for hemp. According to the Farm Bill, hemp is defined as cannabis plants containing no more than 0.3% THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound found in cannabis. This definition provided clarity to the industry and allowed for the cultivation of hemp for various purposes, such as for fiber, grain, and CBD (cannabidiol) extraction.
2023 Farm Bill: Let’s Prepare an Industry
Are You Worried About Threats to Hemp-Derived Products in Georgia, Florida, and Beyond? Here’s How You Can Take Action! As proposed bills in Florida and other states loom over the legal status of hemp-derived products, it’s important to know that you can make a difference in protecting your access to healthy alternatives. One organization that is actively fighting against these bills is the American Healthy Alternatives Association.
They are committed to halting the Healthy Alternatives Ban Bill and safeguarding the right to choose healthy alternative products. You can show your support by donating or becoming a member. Your donations and membership fees directly fund their team of lobbyists, grassroots advocates, and PR professionals who are working tirelessly to keep Big Government from meddling in YOUR health options. In addition to supporting organizations like AHAA, you can also make your voice heard by contacting your local representatives and expressing your concerns about these bills. By raising awareness and voicing your opposition, you can play a role in protecting the future of the hemp industry and ensuring your access to healthy alternatives.
Don’t let these proposed bills become law without taking action. Join the fight with AHAA and other advocacy efforts to safeguard your rights and the thriving hemp industry. Together, we can make a difference and protect the availability of healthy alternatives for all.
What is the Current Environment on Hemp?
Let’s look beyond the weeds of the “lobbied media” and look into how different views and operations are looking for this upcoming consideration of the 2023 Farm Bill…
Funding Limitations: Not all titles in the Farm Bill receive equal funding from the U.S. government, and Title X, also known as Horticulture, often flies under the radar with less than 1% of support. However, its impact on supporting specialty crops, USDA-certified organic foods, locally produced foods, and establishing regulations for industrial hemp cultivation cannot be understated.
Opposing Views: Scott Chipman, the vice president of Americans Against Legalizing Marijuana, sees an opportunity in the upcoming 2023 farm bill to move in a different direction. Chipman and his organization are urging lawmakers to recognize the harms and loopholes presented by the 2018 farm bill and take steps to declare illegal “any product without FDA approval containing THC.”
Promising Regulation: The FDA has expressed readiness to work with Congress to create a “new regulatory pathway” to manage hemp-derived products and the risks associated with CBD, according to an FDA spokesperson. While the proposed farm bill legislation is yet to be commented on by the FDA, this signals a potential opportunity for negative changes in hemp regulation.
Money Does Not Lie: The industrial hemp market has been rapidly growing in recent years, with a worth of around $4.5 billion in 2021. Experts estimate that the market is set to reach approximately US$ 17.24 billion by 2030, signaling significant growth driven by various factors.
What is Likely to Transpire?
Since the last farm bill in 2018, the industry has grown exponentially, leading to diverse opinions among groups lobbying Congress. Some parties advocate for full legalization, while others seek to ban it entirely. It is likely that Congress will aim for a compromise position, implementing new regulations to address safety concerns while allowing the industry to continue flourishing, but the outcome remains uncertain.
In addition to the voices of hemp advocates and opponents, Big Tobacco also has a significant presence in lobbying for farm bills. They often seek to include costly regulations that can negatively impact their competition. Therefore, it is possible that the new farm bill will impose new regulations on all THC products, potentially resulting in some existing products becoming illegal. Others may be subjected to new rules, such as mandatory testing, certifications, and taxes.
This period is seen as a precarious time for the vaping industry and cannabinoid products in general. Businesses may find themselves with products that are difficult or illegal to sell after September, as the 2018 farm bill is set to expire in September 2023, and it is expected that Congress will adopt the new bill prior to or concurrent with its expiration. The uncertainty surrounding the upcoming farm bill leaves the industry on edge, with stakeholders eagerly awaiting the outcome and potential impact on the hemp and cannabinoid markets.
Protect Your Rights: Fight for Hemp
The hemp industry is abuzz with anticipation as the 2023 Farm Bill looms on the horizon, promising both opportunities and challenges. The absence of any concrete language on the topic has left the field wide open for discussions, and all eyes are on how it will address the hot-button issue of Delta-8 (D8), Delta-10 (D10), and other cannabinoid variants, which were conspicuously absent from the 2018 Farm Bill.
As the battle lines are drawn, lobbying efforts from various groups with divergent perspectives are sure to shape the outcome. Will it be a victory for those advocating for the legalization of all cannabinoids, or will the naysayers succeed in a sweeping ban? And let’s not forget the elephant in the room – the shadowy influence of Big Tobacco, lurking in the background, maneuvering to mold regulations in their favor. The stage is set for a political showdown that could have far-reaching implications for the future of the hemp industry.
