US State Governor Urges Congress To Block Federal Hemp THC Ban

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers (D) has written to the state's U.S. House and Senate delegation, asking lawmakers to stop a looming federal recriminalization of hemp THC products before it takes effect later this year. "Hemp has become an increasingly important tool for agricultural diversification, rural economic development, and value-added manufacturing, creating new opportunities for Wisconsin farmers, processors, retailers, and consumers across our state," Evers wrote, calling for "the certainty and regulatory clarity needed for this emerging industry to continue growing." The 2018 Farm Bill, signed by President Donald Trump during his first term, legalized hemp derivatives containing under 0.3 percent delta-9 THC by dry weight. Late last year, Trump signed new legislation redefining hemp so that only products with 0.4 milligrams of total THC per container remain legal after November 12. Evers wants Congress to block that change through the next Farm Bill or standalone legislation, citing over $700 million in economic activity and at least 3,500 jobs tied to Wisconsin's hemp sector. He also called for expanded hemp research funding and better access to crop insurance and financial services. In a July 27 post on X, Evers linked the request to broader criticism of Trump's trade policies and their effect on farmers. A statement from his office says Wisconsin had 470 federally licensed hemp producers as of last November and warns that recriminalization will bring "closures, layoffs, and lost investment," potentially forcing growers to abandon hemp and hurting rural economies. Evers made a similar appeal earlier this year, arguing the threat is worsened because Wisconsin has not legalized marijuana for medical or recreational use. He has repeatedly included marijuana legalization in budget proposals, but the Republican-controlled legislature has blocked it, even as neighboring Illinois and Michigan run adult-use markets. Evers isn't running for re-election, but said last year Democratic control of the legislature could finally bring legalization. Democratic gubernatorial hopefuls pledged support for reform at a cannabis forum last month. In February, a state Senate committee advanced a limited medical marijuana bill that stalled before session's end. In Congress, bipartisan lawmakers have introduced several bills to delay, block or revise the hemp THC ban, but none has gained traction with House or Senate leadership.