Hemp industry faces challenges as government redefines THC limits in shutdown bill – wlos.com
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by Rian Stockett
ASHEVILLE, N.C. (WLOS) — The legislative package to end the government shutdown includes a provision that aims to regulate intoxicating hemp products. But one business owner tells News 13 it would do more than just regulate.
"Congress is not listening to the people. We are not being heard," said Franny Tacy, CEO of Franny's Farmacy.
News 13 reached out to Senator Ted Budd for comment on this provision. A spokesperson from his office sent the following statement:
"This provision that they're slipping in is a complete redefining of what hemp is," said Tacy.
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By law, hemp is defined as cannabis with less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC, the compound within cannabis that creates the psychoactive effect on a person, or in other words, what causes people to get "high." Anything with greater Delta-9 THC levels is what concerns lawmakers.
The hemp loophole that Sen. Budd is talking about is that while hemp can only have less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC, there is no cap on how much THC or other compounds it can have – compounds like Delta-8 THC, a chemical compound also found in the cannabis plant that's similar to Delta-9.
The amendment to the definition would make it so that hemp has a cap on total THC, not just Delta-9.
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"Hemp is a very controversial issue right now. Some folks are pushing the limit with the amount of THC. It's a discussion that needs to continue, and we need to protect the young people in America from such easy access to THC products," said Rep. Chuck Edwards.
As for industry impact, Tacy says this will affect 90% of the hemp-derived market and create even more red tape for farmers.
"I had 11 growers and three of my farmers had crops burned because it wasn't 0.3, it was like 0.5," said Tacy.
Tacy is encouraging residents to reach out to their lawmakers about this. Find their contact information on this website.
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