“I don’t think this is game over, It’s a wake-up call.”- Courtney Moran

A new federal THC limit tucked into a funding bill could eliminate up to 99% of the hemp industry. Critics warn that it threatens farmers, CBD products, and hemp innovation nationwide. Courtney Moran says it’s not “game over” — but a wake-up call.

A recently enacted federal provision — included in the funding bill reponening the federal government— is generating significant concern among Oregon and national hemp stakeholders. The new law caps hemp-derived products at no more than 0.4 mg total THC per package, a threshold industry experts warn could effectively eliminate 95% to 99% of current hemp products, including CBD gummies, oils, and beverages.

While supporters, such as Kentucky Sen. Mitch McConnell, argue the measure is needed to curb intoxicating products marketed to minors, opponents — including Oregon Sen. Jeff Merkley and Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul — caution that the limit is so restrictive it would shut down nearly all hemp-derived products and create major uncertainty for farmers and manufacturers. Analysts estimate the rule could destabilize a national hemp industry valued at $28 billion.

EARTH Law, LLC’s Founding Principal, Courtney Moran, emphasized that although the industry welcomes efforts to remove unsafe or mislabeled products from the market, the new federal language extends far beyond that goal. Without amendments before the rules take effect in November 2026, the impact on farmers, processors, retailers, and consumers could be profound.

Still, Moran remains hopeful: “I don’t think this is game over,” she said. “It’s a wake-up call.”

🔗 Read the full article on OregonLive (The Oregonian):

https://www.oregonlive.com/politics/2025/11/oregon-critics-say-new-us-law-will-wipe-out-95-to-99-of-hemp-industry-take-cbd-gummies-and-oils-off-shelves.html

How can the industry take action?

In coordination with our sister lobbying firm Agricultural Hemp Solutions, there is a working group of the national nonprofit organizations coming together “Pushing Progress” for a true united front to address the concerns of Congress, regulators, health officials, and law enforcement, with the interests of all sectors of hemp stakeholders and consumers. To get involved contact Agricultural Hemp Solutions.

The EARTH Law, LLC  team is available to provide expert guidance in navigating the complexities of these new federal hemp regulations.  Please schedule a consultation at info@earthlawllc.com or 541-632-3946.