GOP Senator Rand Paul Proposes Tripling Hemp THC Cap, As Industry Faces Pressing Challenges

Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) introduced the Hemp Economic Mobilization Plan (HEMP) Act on Thursday, aiming to relax federal constraints on hemp by tripling the allowable THC content from 0.3% to 1%.

This legislation seeks to redefine hemp and simplify the testing process, shifting focus from raw hemp flower to finished products – a change that could ease operational challenges for hemp farmers and processors.

HEMP Act Aims To Cut Red Tape

"For years, I've led the fight in Washington to restore one of Kentucky's most historically vital crops by legalizing industrial hemp,” Senator Paul stated in a press release. “We achieved a hard-won victory, but there is still work to do to prevent the federal government from weighing down our farmers with unnecessary bureaucratic micromanaging. My legislation will help this growing industry reach its full economic potential and bring transparency to government regulations."

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The HEMP Act proposes to clarify the guidelines for transporting hemp, requiring shipments to carry either a valid license or a certificate demonstrating compliance with the new THC threshold. This documentation requirement is designed to prevent misidentification and seizure by law enforcement, mistaking legal hemp for illicit substances.

Read Also: Gov. Newsom’s Hemp Ban Goes Into Effect: Consequences For Industry, Investors, Patients

Wyden And Paul Offer Contrasting Hemp Bills

Amidst competing legislative proposals, including a comprehensive framework from Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR), Paul’s bill highlights a growing congressional rift over the best approach to regulate the booming hemp industry. While Wyden’s bill emphasizes a more stringent regulatory regime and bans synthetic cannabinoids, Paul’s proposal represents a deregulatory approach.

Hemp Industry Faces Regulatory Issues

The bill’s introduction comes at a crucial time, as the hemp industry faces pressing regulatory challenges and health-related concerns surrounding its psychoactive products.

By redefining what qualifies as hemp and easing testing mandates, the HEMP Act promises to alleviate some of these burdens, aiming to strengthen an industry that has shown signs of robust growth despite regulatory headwinds.

As the debate unfolds, stakeholders and lawmakers are positioning themselves either in favor of a unified approach for hemp and cannabis or tightening the regulatory reins to ensure product safety concerns tied to hemp-derived cannabinoids.

Read Next:

• Hemp Under Siege: State Bans And Farm Bill To Be Discussed On Sept. 30
• Kentucky Moves Closer To Medical Cannabis Rollout With First License Awarded To Testing Lab