Hemp and cannabis lobbies intensify feud after Congress delays federal ban

The delay in implementing a federal hemp ban until December has given the hemp industry a temporary reprieve, but it has also intensified the feud between hemp and cannabis lobbies. This development matters because it highlights the ongoing struggle for clarity and stability in the federal regulatory environment for hemp and cannabis. The hemp industry has been growing rapidly, with many businesses investing heavily in the crop, and a federal ban would have significant economic implications.

The feud between hemp and cannabis lobbies is not surprising, given the differing interests of the two industries. The cannabis industry has long been pushing for stricter regulations on hemp, which is a cousin of the cannabis plant, in an effort to prevent diversion of hemp-derived products into the illicit cannabis market. On the other hand, the hemp industry has been advocating for a more permissive regulatory environment, which would allow for greater freedom to cultivate and process hemp. The delay in implementing a federal ban has given both sides more time to lobby and maneuver, which is likely to lead to further conflict.

As the December deadline approaches, industry stakeholders should watch for further developments on the regulatory front, including potential legislative action or regulatory guidance from federal agencies. The hemp industry will likely continue to push for a more favorable regulatory environment, while the cannabis industry will likely continue to advocate for stricter controls on hemp. It remains to be seen how Congress and federal agencies will balance the competing interests of these two industries, but one thing is clear: the outcome will have significant implications for the future of hemp and cannabis in the United States.

Originally reported by mjbizdaily.com. HempNews adds analysis for cannabis & hemp readers.