Kentucky Hemp Industry Pushes Congress to Delay THC Product Ban

U.S. Rep. Andy Barr introduced the bipartisan Lawful Hemp Protection Act, proposing a national framework for intoxicating hemp products and higher THC limits. The bill aims to address an upcoming federal restriction that, beginning in mid‑November, would prohibit the sale of hemp‑derived items containing more than 0.4 mg of THC per container.

Industry leaders and Kentucky lawmakers, including Sen. Rand Paul and Rep. James Comer, are urging Congress to pair the legislation with a moratorium on the ban, arguing that the deadline would cripple the state’s growing hemp sector. The ban originated from a provision added by Sen. Mitch McConnell to a 2025 continuing resolution. McConnell’s prolonged hospitalization has stalled Senate action, raising concerns that the restriction could also outlaw many CBD and low‑THC products. The U.S. Hemp Roundtable and Crescent Canna’s CEO Joe Gerrity stress that an extension is essential to allow time for the bill to be refined and passed.