Hemp Shops and Farms Face Uncertain Future

In North Carolina, hemp shops like Redhead Hemp have created a welcoming space for people to explore hemp-based products. These shops offer a variety of items, from CBD gummies to THC-infused drinks, all designed to provide benefits like better sleep and reduced anxiety. The cozy atmosphere, with its plants, artwork, and comfortable seating, makes it a place where everyone can feel at ease. However, the future of these shops is now in jeopardy. A new federal ban, set to take effect in November 2026, will make most of their products illegal. This ban, part of an Agriculture appropriations bill, drastically reduces the allowable level of THC in hemp products. For many shops, this means losing about 99. 5% of their inventory. The ban targets full-spectrum hemp products, which include THC and are believed to be more effective for pain relief and anxiety management. The hemp industry has been caught off guard by this sudden change. Emma MacAdam, owner of Redhead Hemp, found out about the ban the morning of the Senate vote. She and others in the industry feel that the ban was sneaked into the bill without proper consideration. The ban has been pushed by the marijuana industry and law enforcement, who argue that hemp products are exploiting a loophole to sell intoxicating substances without proper regulation. Critics of the ban point out that hemp products are not targeted at children. Shops like Redhead Hemp have strict age restrictions and do not market their products to minors. They argue that the ban is driven by fearmongering and a lack of understanding about the benefits of hemp products. The ban also comes at a time when the hemp industry has thrived with little regulation, allowing for greater accessibility and innovation. Farmers, too, are feeling the impact of the ban. Dana Rider, co-owner of Otherside Farm, has seen the hemp industry become a vital part of his family's livelihood. Hemp has helped revitalize old tobacco farms and dairies, providing a new source of income. The ban threatens to wipe out their entire product line, as they do not have the equipment to produce THC-free CBD isolates. As the ban approaches, hemp business owners are exploring their options. Some are advocating for a reversal of the ban, while others are looking to pivot to the limited range of CBD products that will remain legal. For many, the next year will be a critical period of adaptation and advocacy. The future of the hemp industry hangs in the balance, and the fight to preserve it is just beginning.