Industrial Hemp Faces Policy Headwinds in Kansas
WICHITA, Kan. (KWCH) – Industrial hemp appeared poised for a boom in Kansas, but policy headwinds now threaten the sector. The industry faces uncertain regulations at state and federal levels.
Advocates warned on Saturday at the Kanna Next conference that state and federal rules could cripple farmers and retailers. Their concerns center on upcoming legislation that could impact businesses across the supply chain.
Dec. 11 is a deadline that forces Congress to pass a new spending bill to avoid a shutdown. At the same time, a nationwide crackdown on certain hemp‑derived products will take effect unless lawmakers act.
“We are in a wait and see mode,” Kelly Rippel, Co‑Founder of Kansas For Hemp, said. “Kansas lacks a regulated program for cannabinoid products and for hemp cannabinoids.”
A conference speaker warned, “Our businesses will sink and fail if this law takes effect.” The statement highlighted the urgency facing industry participants.
Hemp and marijuana are distinct sectors that often find themselves at odds. The rivalry has intensified as hemp‑derived products capture market share from marijuana.
“Marijuana operators feel threatened as hemp‑derived products head‑to‑head with marijuana,” Sheldon Coleman, Founder and CEO of Adventrue Natural‑Based Wellness Products, said. The tension reflects broader industry conflict.
Coleman restructured operations at an Andover location that included 80 acres of hemp production. He cited legislative uncertainty and law‑enforcement challenges as reasons for the shift.
He explained that he sold a Kansas farm a few weeks ago because continued hemp farming became impossible. Misinformation about hemp’s legality further complicated the decision.
Coleman argued that hemp could bolster Kansas agriculture and noted its potential in manufacturing and textile materials. “It’s a pity because it’s a great product that would be wonderful for farmers,” he added.
Haylie Gardner, an attendee at Kanna Next, urged greater state investment: “I just don’t see why we aren’t putting more income into this. It could be a boon for Kansas.”
Coleman and Rippel agree that the hemp industry needs regulation and guidance, not prohibition. They warn that a ban would jeopardize the sector’s growth.
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