Wisconsin Governor Calls on Congress to Revise Federal Hemp Law
In a recent press release, Governor Tony Evers urged Wisconsin’s congressional delegation to act swiftly on pending federal legislation that could reshape the state’s hemp industry. The governor’s letter highlights concerns that a new THC threshold could jeopardize hundreds of millions of dollars in economic activity and thousands of jobs across Wisconsin.
Economic Impact at Stake
According to the governor’s office, the current federal hemp rule—set to take effect in November—would cap the allowable THC content at 0.4 mg per product container. Economic analysts estimate that this restriction could put at risk roughly $700 million in statewide economic output and endanger nearly 3,500 jobs tied to hemp cultivation, processing, and retail.
These figures align with a 2023 USDA Economic Research Service assessment, which noted that the U.S. hemp market contributed over $1.2 billion to the national economy in 2022, with Wisconsin ranking among the top ten states for licensed hemp producers (USDA ERS, 2023).
Why the THC Limit Matters for Wisconsin
Wisconsin has not yet legalized medical or recreational marijuana, making hemp‑derived products a lawful alternative for consumers seeking cannabinoids such as CBD. Governor Evers pointed out that the state’s 470 federally licensed hemp producers (as of November 2025) rely on a clear, science‑based definition of hemp to plan planting seasons and invest in equipment.
The governor referenced a Congressional Research Service memo that warns a sudden shift in the THC threshold could create regulatory uncertainty, discouraging long‑term investment in the sector (CRS, 2022). Without legislative clarity, farmers may opt to abandon hemp in favor of more stable crops, potentially harming rural communities that have come to depend on the industry.
Governor Evers’ Recommendations
Evers’ letter asks Congress to:
- Maintain a THC definition grounded in peer‑reviewed science, rather than an arbitrary milligram‑per‑container cap.
- Consider delaying the effective date of the new rule to provide businesses and growers with adequate time to adapt.
- Work with state agriculture departments to ensure any federal changes reflect regional realities, especially in states where marijuana remains prohibited.
The governor emphasized that “time is of the essence,” noting that planting decisions for the upcoming season must be made months in advance. He warned that inaction could lead to farm closures, layoffs, and a loss of the skilled workforce that has supported Wisconsin’s hemp growth over the past decade.
Looking Forward
Stakeholders across the state—including the Wisconsin Farm Bureau, the Hemp Industries Association, and local economic development agencies—have echoed the governor’s call for a balanced, evidence‑based approach. They argue that a flexible federal framework would preserve the industry’s contribution to job creation, tax revenue, and sustainable agriculture while still addressing public‑health concerns.
As the November deadline approaches, all eyes will be on Washington to see whether lawmakers respond to the urgent plea from Wisconsin’s leadership.
Source: Here
