Rand Paul Opposes New Federal Hemp Rule as Kentucky Industry Warns of Major Losses

Senator Rand Paul is pushing back against a new federal hemp rule that could ban most hemp-derived THC products next year. The rule was added to a recent federal funding bill and has caused alarm across Kentucky. The state’s hemp sector says the change could shut down nearly all of its operations. The main keyword here is Rand Paul.

The concern grew after industry leaders warned that up to 95% of Kentucky’s hemp products may become illegal. The rule sets a strict THC limit per container. Kentucky producers say the limit is too low and ignores existing state protections.

Rand Paul Criticizes Federal THC Limit

According to Reuters, the federal rule was championed by Senator Mitch McConnell. It bans hemp-derived products with more than 0.4 milligrams of THC per container. McConnell says the change protects children from intoxicating products. He also says it closes a loophole in the 2018 Farm Bill.

Rand Paul disagrees with the new policy. He says Kentucky already limits youth access to THC items. He argues that the federal rule ignores state laws and places new pressure on farms and small businesses. Paul says the ban goes too far and will hurt rural communities.

Industry leaders also warn that the new limit is not practical. Many legal hemp items contain small amounts of THC. These amounts are not intoxicating. But they exceed the new federal limit. Business owners say this will wipe out the majority of their product lines.

Farmers worry they cannot plan next year’s crops. Planting season starts in early summer. Many say they need clarity soon. They do not want to plant crops that may later be banned.

Concerns Grow Over Impact on Kentucky’s Hemp Economy

The Kentucky hemp market is worth about $300 million a year. Farmers, processors, and retailers depend on the income. Many say the new federal rule could cause severe losses. Some expect layoffs and possible closures.

Paul says Congress should change the rule or delay it. He believes THC limits should match Kentucky’s five-milligram serving cap. He also says states should decide their own rules. Several lawmakers have signaled openness to a compromise. But no changes have been made yet.

Farmers say the issue affects their towns and families. They argue that hemp has brought new life to rural areas. Some also say they invested heavily in equipment and land. They fear that the rule will force them to stop production.

Kentucky Hemp Industry Looks for a Path Forward

The industry hopes lawmakers will review the rule in the coming months. Paul says he will continue to push for changes. Many in the sector say they support child safety. But they also want federal rules that reflect real production needs.

For now, the future is unclear. The rule takes effect next November. Leaders in the industry say they need answers long before that date. They say time is running out for a sector that once showed great promise.

Rand Paul says the hemp industry needs fair limits and clear rules. He says Kentucky farmers should not be forced out of business. The coming months will decide how the new federal hemp rule shapes the state’s economy.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What does Rand Paul oppose in the new hemp rule?

He opposes the strict federal THC limit. He says it threatens most hemp products in Kentucky. He argues it ignores state laws already in place.

Q2: Why is the hemp industry worried?

Producers say the federal limit is too low. Many legal products will no longer qualify. This could shut down most of their operations.

Q3: When does the rule take effect?

The new federal limit begins next November. Farmers say they need answers before planting season. That season begins in early summer.

Q4: What limit does Kentucky use now?

Kentucky allows up to five milligrams of THC per serving. Many products on the market follow this rule. The federal limit is far below that level.

Q5: Who supports the new federal rule?

Senator Mitch McConnell supports it. He says it protects children and closes a loophole. Industry leaders and Rand Paul disagree.