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US hemp regulation was one of the most controversial and potentially impactful debates in 2024, but signs are already emerging that 2025 could be a positive year for the sector.
Firstly, as President-elect Donald Trump continues to flesh out his incoming cabinet, Stephen Alexander Vaden has been nominated for the role of deputy secretary of the US Department of Agriculture.
His position at the top of the US agricultural regulator will come as welcome news for many hemp farmers facing continued and growing threats to their businesses amid a widespread backlash against intoxicating hemp substances.
Vaden, a legal expert and a roster of agricultural policy contributions under his belt, is credited with being a driving force behind the 2018 Farm Bill, which effectively legalized hemp, during his tenure as USDA general council between 2017 and 2020.
His involvement included key legal opinions that provided clarity on interstate hemp transport and helped stabilize the hemp supply chain.
Furthermore, his previous advocacy for clear legal frameworks and his deep ties to the farming community suggest he could champion policies that support hemp growers and processors, and stakeholders are optimistic that Vaden’s leadership could help streamline policies and foster growth in the industry.
Vaden’s nomination comes alongside that of Brooke Rollins for USDA secretary. Together, their leadership is expected to prioritize rural development, sustainable agricultural practices, and policies benefiting key sectors, including hemp.
Meanwhile, the USDA has launched a new video campaign promoting hemp’s versatility and nutritional value, highlighting its potential in various industries, from textiles and construction to food products.
In the video, USDA scientists emphasize hemp’s benefits, including its rich nutritional profile, with seeds offering protein, amino acids, and heart-healthy fatty acids like omega-3 and omega-6.
Researchers at the National Center for Agricultural Utilization Research are reportedly working to unlock hemp’s full potential, aiming to develop technologies that enable its broader use in foods while benefiting both farmers and consumers.
Elsewhere, the USDA is preparing to launch its annual survey to hemp farmers this month to collect data on the industry’s production, value, and market trends.
This initiative aims to provide critical insights for producers, regulators, and industry stakeholders as the hemp sector continues to evolve. The survey covers topics such as acreage, crop uses, and pricing, with responses due by January 30 and results expected in April.
In 2023, the USDA’s survey revealed a modest recovery in the hemp industry, with the total production value reaching $291 million—an 18% increase over 2022. However, the sector still faces significant hurdles, including federal regulatory uncertainty and legislative proposals that could ban many hemp-derived cannabinoid products.
As previously reported, legislative changes proposed in the 2024 Farm Bill could reshape the industry further, potentially redefining hemp to include ‘total THC’ testing, which would account for delta-8 THC and THC-A, and creating a specific definition for ‘industrial hemp’ to exclude cannabinoid products.
“}]] US hemp regulation was one of the most controversial and potentially impactful debates in 2024, but signs are already emerging that 2025 could be a positive year for the sector. Read More
