Hemp Industry Leaders Urge Congress to Clarify Federal Regulations Amid Fears of De Facto Ban

Last week, more than 100 representatives from the hemp industry gathered in Washington, D.C., for a day of advocacy organized by the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) and several hemp industry groups. The event brought together members of Congress, Hill staffers, and media to discuss the future of hemp-derived products and the need for a clear federal regulatory framework.

The day began with a roundtable led by James Comer, Chairman of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform and representative from Kentucky’s first district. Industry participants from across the country thanked Comer for his support of hemp and discussed both opportunities and challenges facing the sector. A central concern was language in the current House Agriculture Appropriations Bill that some say amounts to a de facto ban on hemp-derived products. Comer reiterated his commitment to supporting the industry, referencing his experience as Kentucky’s Commissioner of Agriculture and his role in launching the state’s industrial hemp pilot program. He called on House leadership to remove what he described as arbitrary language redefining legal hemp from upcoming appropriations legislation.

Following the roundtable, Representative Derrick Van Orden of Wisconsin opened a public panel discussion moderated by Jeremiah Mosteller, Policy Director for Americans for Prosperity. The panel focused on the economic impact of the hemp industry and how state-level developments are shaping a regulated consumer marketplace. Panelists included Ken Meyer, a hemp farmer; Sean Kelly, Chief Marketing Officer at ABC Fine Wine & Spirit; Jared Simon, President of Manitoba Harvest; and Justin Ashby, Chief Administrative Officer at Southern Crown Partners. They discussed how federal inaction is affecting businesses and consumers, arguing that prohibition would undermine state-led innovation and put legitimate businesses at risk.

Throughout the day, attendees met with more than 200 congressional offices to advocate for regulation rather than prohibition. They emphasized that banning hemp-derived products would not eliminate them from the market but would instead push them into unregulated channels. Industry leaders argued that responsible regulation is necessary to protect consumers and support American farmers.

Farmers at the event highlighted their significant investments in hemp cultivation and warned that prohibition could threaten family farms by reducing consumer demand and driving down prices. The U.S. Hemp Roundtable announced the formation of a Farmer Advisory Council to ensure growers’ voices are heard in policy discussions.

Attendees also pointed out that the industry supports thousands of jobs nationwide. They urged lawmakers to consider the economic impact of any regulatory changes, warning that a ban could result in significant job losses.

Market demographics were another topic of discussion, with participants noting strong demand among women over 40 and veterans. They argued that clear federal regulation could help American brands expand globally while ensuring consumer safety.

Senator Rand Paul of Kentucky concluded the day’s events at a reception where he spoke about the importance of federal regulation for the industry’s future. He answered questions from attendees and encouraged continued advocacy efforts.

The event underscored bipartisan support for regulatory clarity on Capitol Hill. Organizers circulated a letter urging Congress to act quickly to provide guidance for this growing sector. Industry leaders said they will continue working with lawmakers to ensure that any new regulations support both public safety and economic growth.