The hemp and CBD industry in Kentucky is facing a critical moment. A federal bill signed during the recent government shutdown could ban most hemp-derived products, putting farmers, small businesses, and consumers at risk. With just one year before the ban takes effect in November 2026, industry leaders are rallying to secure common-sense hemp and CBD regulations.
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A Year Until the Ban Impacts Hemp and CBD Products
The new federal legislation sets a strict 0.4 milligram THC per container limit, effectively banning most consumer hemp products, including CBD oils, edibles, beverages, and other cannabinoid products.
While industrial hemp, like hemp seeds, fiber, and oil, remains legal, the ban threatens a large portion of Kentucky’s hemp economy — estimated at $330 million annually, employing over 3,000 people.
Kentucky hemp farmers are concerned about livelihoods. Asa Phillips, a farmer in northern Kentucky, shared:
“I watched the other day… the boys came out of the building to go to work… and I’m sitting there thinking they’ve got two months left.”
Small Businesses and Consumers at Risk
The ban could impact CBD retailers, wellness brands, and medicinal hemp products. Dee Dee Taylor, President of the Kentucky Hemp Association and owner of 502 Hemp in Louisville, emphasized:
“The little 7-year-old who has brain cancer will no longer be able to get her full-spectrum CBD products because it’s the only way she is able to keep food down.”
Annie Rouse, founder of Cannabuzz, added:
“Within one year, Sen. McConnell’s hemp ban will wipe out the cannabinoid market entirely, denying safe, regulated access to products that reduce stress and improve lives.”
Some Hemp Businesses Remain Unaffected
Not all hemp companies will be impacted. Victory Hemp in Carrollton, KY, which processes hemp seeds into protein powder, oil, and hemp hearts, will continue operations as usual. Founder Chad Rosen sees the ban as a rallying point:
“This is the moment for a call to arms for everyone to voice their opinion and get legislation right, so there is no more gray area.”
The Path Forward: Regulate, Don’t Ban
Leaders in the hemp and CBD industry are actively working with legislators to introduce regulatory bills that protect consumers and businesses.
- Rep. Morgan Griffith (R-VA) plans to require good manufacturing practices, truth in labeling, and measures to prevent synthetic THC in products.
- Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) will reintroduce regulatory legislation in the Senate.
- Kentucky lawmakers, including Rep. Al Gentry, are exploring state-level solutions to support affected businesses.
With 365 days to act, there’s a window to advocate for safe, science-backed hemp and CBD regulations that protect health-conscious consumers and the industry at large.
How You Can Help Protect Hemp and CBD Products
Consumers, businesses, and hemp advocates can make a difference. Contact your legislators and support regulatory measures that allow CBD oils, edibles, and wellness products to remain on the market.
The message from the Kentucky hemp community is clear:
“We have a year to regulate, not ban. Hemp is essential for health, wellness, and economic growth. Let’s ensure a future where hemp and CBD products remain accessible to all.”
