Senate Extends Hemp Moratorium in Continuing Resolution
Today, Senate leaders released a continuing resolution (CR) to keep government operating that includes some great news: if passed, the moratorium on the hemp ban would be extended from November 12 to December 11. The latter date is when the new CR expires and government funding would need to be extended once again so that expiration would provide another opportunity for a more extensive hemp fix. Only a ban on pure synthetic products will go into effect in November — welcome news for hemp farmers, small businesses, retailers, manufacturers, and consumers across the country. Here’s a link to the language.
Bipartisan Support and Administration Backing
We are grateful to a bipartisan coalition of lawmakers who worked to ensure the hemp industry was not left behind in these critical funding negotiations. Their collaboration reflects a shared recognition that hemp represents a growing segment of American agriculture. In addition, the White House under President Trump has voiced support for ongoing dialogue about hemp policy, underscoring an executive branch willingness to engage with stakeholders on this issue.
Why a Temporary Extension Matters
While the extension delays the imminent ban, it is not a permanent solution. The Senate and House must still approve the funding package, and the temporary nature of the CR means the hemp industry’s future will return to the congressional agenda in the coming weeks. This window offers lawmakers additional time to craft a thoughtful, long‑term approach that considers the full economic impact of hemp.
According to the USDA Economic Research Service, licensed hemp acreage expanded from virtually zero in 2014 to more than 146,000 acres in 2021, generating approximately $824 million in revenue for farmers and processors 1. These figures illustrate why a sudden, sweeping ban could disrupt supply chains, jeopardize rural jobs, and limit consumer access to hemp‑derived products such as CBD oils, textiles, and food ingredients.
Path Forward and Advocacy Efforts
The U.S. Hemp Roundtable is mobilizing an advocacy campaign to secure congressional approval of the current CR and to build momentum for a lasting legislative fix. As part of this effort, we invite supporters to join an exclusive webinar for USHR members and Hemp Supporter+ subscribers at 4 p.m. ET tomorrow, Monday, August 3. Experts will break down the continuing resolution, outline congressional negotiations, and share our strategy for achieving a durable hemp policy.
*This webinar is available exclusively to Hemp Supporter+ subscribers. After subscribing, you’ll find the registration link on your member dashboard, along with additional advocacy resources and member benefits.
Stay tuned. This week we expect to launch an advocacy campaign to help secure congressional approval and continue building support for a lasting legislative solution. When the time comes, we’ll need your voice. Together, we’ve taken steps to avert an immediate crisis. Now let’s finish the job.
