Overview
- The agriculture title would redefine hemp by capping total THC at 0.3% by dry weight and 0.4 milligrams per container, effectively barring most delta‑8, THCA and other intoxicating hemp products.
- Senators rejected Rand Paul’s bid to remove the provision, he was the lone Republican to oppose final passage, and Mitch McConnell backed the limits as a child‑safety measure that preserves industrial hemp and non‑intoxicating CBD.
- The package now moves to the House, where Republicans including James Comer and Thomas Massie have objected to the hemp language, and the White House has been reported as supportive.
- Industry groups warn the change would override state rules and cripple a market they value around $28 billion, with estimates that roughly 95% of businesses and significant tax revenues would be wiped out.
- The limits would take effect 365 days after enactment, leaving a year for potential legal challenges or legislative revisions before gummies, drinks and vapes would be forced off shelves.