The 2024 Farm Bill is set to introduce significant changes for the hemp industry, aiming to enhance regulatory clarity, market stability, and growth opportunities. Here are the key changes and objectives outlined by industry leaders and stakeholders:

1. Maintaining the Definition of Hemp: One of the primary goals is to uphold the current definition of hemp as cannabis with less than 0.3% THC on a dry weight basis. This clarity is crucial for stability and market predictability.

2. Regulatory Reforms: The industry is pushing for reduced regulatory burdens, particularly for hemp grain and fiber farmers. This includes efforts to streamline processes and make compliance more manageable for producers .

3. THC Limit Adjustments: There is a proposal to raise the THC limit for hemp crops to 1.0%, which would provide farmers with more flexibility and protect their crops from being classified as illegal due to slight variations in THC levels .

4. CBD Regulation: Advocates are calling for the regulation of CBD as a dietary supplement and food additive, which would help stabilize the market and open new economic opportunities for hemp farmers. This move is seen as vital for the growth of the hemp-derived CBD industry.

5. Hemp for Animal Feed: The bill seeks to permit the use of hemp grain in animal feed, expanding the market for hemp farmers and integrating hemp into broader agricultural practices .

6. Equity and Inclusion: Efforts are underway to repeal the felon ban, which currently prevents individuals with drug-related convictions from participating in hemp production. This change aims to promote justice and equity within the industry .

7. Consumer Protection and Laboratory Testing: Enhancing quality control and consumer protection is a priority. This includes increasing the number of accredited testing laboratories to ensure the safety and reliability of hemp products.

These proposed changes reflect a unified effort by industry leaders to create a more robust and sustainable hemp industry. The collective voice of the hemp community is aimed at ensuring the final Farm Bill addresses these critical issues, providing a clearer regulatory pathway and fostering an environment where the hemp industry can thrive.