U.S. Hemp Regulation Initiative

U.S. Representative Andy Barr introduced the bipartisan Lawful Hemp Protection Act, a federal framework that would standardize cultivation, processing, testing and labeling of hemp‑derived consumer products, prohibit synthetic cannabinoids, restrict sales to adults 21+, and ban child‑targeted marketing. The bill seeks to protect Kentucky hemp growers by requiring domestic production and allowing states to impose stricter rules.

Following the bill's introduction, industry leaders and Kentucky officials, including Sen. Rand Paul and Rep. James Comer, urged Congress to pair the legislation with a moratorium on an imminent federal ban on hemp products containing more than 0.4 mg of THC per container. The ban, slated for mid‑November, stems from a provision added by Sen. Mitch McConnell to a 2025 continuing resolution. With McConnell’s prolonged hospitalization delaying Senate action, the hemp sector warned that the restriction could cripple Kentucky’s growing market and many CBD and low‑THC products. Stakeholders advocated for an extension to give the Lawful Hemp Protection Act time for refinement and passage.