FY26 Appropriations Hemp Policy Proposals Opposed by Bipartisan Congressional Leadership

In mid-September, bipartisan letters were sent to House and Senate leadership opposing provisions in FY26 Agriculture-FDA Appropriations Bills that could result in significant changes to hemp industry stakeholders and the regulation of hemp-derived cannabinoid products.

The letters opposing FY26 Appropriations hemp policy highlight:

• Potential impact on farmers: Proposed language could threaten thousands of acres of hemp crops and disrupt the economic viability of American hemp farmers.

• Focus on consumer safety: Advocates urge a framework that regulates finished hemp products, restricts sales to adults over 21, standardizes labeling, and requires independent third-party lab testing.

• Economic significance: The U.S. hemp industry supports an estimated 320,000 jobs, generates $28.4 billion in market activity, and contributes approximately $1.5 billion in state tax revenue.

• Dual-use hemp cultivars: Concern over impact on farmers producing dual purpose cops and the perceived interdependence of grain, fiber, and cannabinoid crops.

• Access to non-psychoactive CBD: Re-criminalization language could limit access to low-THC, non-psychoactive products widely used for wellness and pain management.

To view the full letters, please visit the blog from our sister lobbying firm, Agricultural Hemp Solutions: View the Letters Here.

Stay tuned for updates as Congress continues negotiations over federal hemp and cannabinoid regulation.

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