Congress delays hemp‑THC ban as industry fights for survival
A Trump‑signed spending bill moves the effective date of the federal hemp‑THC ban from Nov. 12 to Dec. 11, while producers and senators push for regulation instead of prohibition.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Congress voted to close a loophole that allowed the multi‑billion‑dollar hemp‑THC market to expand, but a short‑term spending bill signed by President Donald Trump on September 30 pushed back the ban’s start date from Nov. 12 to Dec. 11, giving lawmakers additional time to consider regulation, according to two reports from The Independent.
What happened
The U.S. House and Senate approved legislation that would eliminate a federal loophole permitting the sale of intoxicating hemp products such as THC‑infused seltzers and smokable flower. The bill would have taken effect on Nov. 12, 2026. However, a short‑term appropriations measure signed by President Trump on Sept. 30 delayed the implementation to Dec. 11, 2026.
What the reports add
Both Independent articles describe the same legislative action and the same delay, but each adds distinct details. The first article notes that the market is valued at $28 billion and mentions that the ban could force producers like Nicholas Hohns of Deutermann Farms in Clayton, N.C., to shut down. The second article identifies Senator Mitch McConnell as the lawmaker who originally closed the loophole and adds that the industry includes products sold at Target stores.
What was said
"It’s such a weird spot to be in," Nicholas Hohns told the Independent, adding that he had worked 100 hours a week for four years and now faced the possibility of losing his business.
How it came about
The hemp‑THC sector grew after a 2018 farm bill created a legal distinction between low‑THC hemp and high‑THC marijuana, allowing producers to sell intoxicating hemp products nationwide. Industry lobbyists and a handful of lawmakers have since argued that a blanket ban would hurt a market that now generates billions of dollars in revenue. The recent spending bill, signed by Trump, reflects ongoing congressional debate over whether to regulate the products rather than prohibit them outright.
Key facts
- A short‑term spending bill signed by President Donald Trump delayed the federal hemp‑THC ban from Nov. 12 to Dec. 11, 2026. (independent.co.uk)
- Congress voted to close a loophole that had allowed the hemp‑THC market to expand. (independent.co.uk)
- The hemp‑THC market is valued at about $28 billion. (independent.co.uk)
- Nicholas Hohns, a producer in Clayton, North Carolina, said the delay leaves his business in limbo. (independent.co.uk)
- Senator Mitch McConnell was the lawmaker who championed the loophole closure. (independent.co.uk)
