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Sen. Ted Cruz says it will be very difficult for the hemp industry to stop the new federal ban on many hemp THC products before it takes effect later this year. The ban, pushed by retiring Sen. Mitch McConnell, changes the legal definition of hemp so most THC-infused hemp products will become illegal after November 12, 2026. Cruz called the move unfair to farmers and small businesses that built their companies around the current law, though he also acknowledged concerns about products being marketed to children.
Cruz explained that McConnell still has major influence in the Senate and is strongly opposing any effort to delay or reverse the ban, making it unlikely Congress will act this year. He said the best chance for changes would be through a compromise in the upcoming Farm Bill. Cruz also noted he sided with Sen. Rand Paul against McConnell during earlier debates because he believed the crackdown would unnecessarily hurt hemp farmers and businesses.
Looking ahead to 2027, Cruz said the political situation could improve for the hemp industry once McConnell retires and is potentially replaced by Rep. Andy Barr, who supports hemp reform. Meanwhile, lawmakers, industry groups, and even President Donald Trump have expressed interest in preserving at least some hemp-derived products like full-spectrum CBD, while continuing to regulate products viewed as higher risk.
This is a summary.
Read the original article: It’ll Be An ‘Uphill Path’ To Stop A Federal Ban On Hemp THC Products This Year, Ted Cruz Says
Original article written by Tom Angell. Published on May 27, 2026 by Marijuana Moment.
