1. United States
2. Wash.
3. Letter

I urge you to support legislation extending the hemp ban moratorium by two years in the upcoming continuing resolution. As part of the backroom deal that reopened government in November, more than 95% of hemp products that Americans rely on for health and wellness would be treated as Schedule 1 drugs, equivalent to heroin. The legislation included a one-year moratorium on its effective date to allow time to replace this ban with meaningful regulation of hemp products. Unfortunately, one year is not enough for farmers, state regulators, or the industry to craft a long-term solution that protects consumers. A two-year extension is essential to provide stability while Congress develops a responsible regulatory framework. States also lack clear guidance, and some are already moving forward with actions assuming the federal ban will take effect as written. This confusion further destabilizes the market and puts farmers and small businesses in an impossible position. A two-year extension on the current moratorium will give Congress the time needed to develop a bipartisan, responsible regulatory framework and allow states and farmers to adjust accordingly. Please co-sponsor legislation to extend the moratorium and protect American agriculture, small businesses, and consumers.