December 15, 2020, Senator Rand Paul (R-Ky) introduced the Hemp Economic Mobilization Plan Act to relieve the Hemp Industry's constant obstruction. Hemp Farmers and processors experience crop loss and financial stress due to stringent testing. This act would amend the legal definition of Hemp from .3% THC to a full 1%. Also, it will require the final testing of a hemp-extract product rather than the plant itself. All products and hemp flowers would require a certificate verifying the THC percentage and the margin of error.
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As an early hemp advocate, Paul continues to fight for transparency and equity through certainty testing. Paul ushers the hemp industry into free enterprise. The HEMP act promotes less government regulation and more trust in our hemp processors and farmers. The certificate of seed authenticity verifies THC levels to eliminate crop seizure and burning. Currently,The USDA destroys hemp flower with greater than .3% THC.
There are environmental factors that farmers cannot control regarding increased cannabinoids within a plant. However, the extraction process can control the amount of THC within a product. Paul's efforts to shift from plant testing to product testing moves the hemp industry forward.Â
"There is still work to do to prevent the federal government from weighing down our farmers with unnecessary bureaucratic micromanaging," the senator expressed in a press release. "My legislation will help this growing industry reach its full economic potential."
American Hemp farmers have found innovative ways to comply with the .3% THC standard. This bill could open the door for legalization for marijuana but lessen the exclusivity of hemp, specifically American grown hemp. This notion leaves many hemp retailers and processors confused. The confusion lies in policy distinguishing hemp from marijuana. Most European countries' hemp policies are modeled after the United States, but the Caribbean and South American countries are not. These countries have higher THC thresholds than .3% and are considered marijuana by the current standard. Under the HEMP Act, the US would open their borders to an influx of competition.Â
Here at Jades Elevation, we believe this may be the much-needed step to create an expansive and more inclusive industry. The Hemp Economic Mobilization Plan Act can promote more studies and eliminate the misconceptions plaguing the hemp industry. THC threshold is a longstanding issue amongst hemp enthusiasts, farmers, and processors. However, Rand Paul strives to create a clear standard that promotes an open industry.Â
