Story perspectives

Federal Bill Threatens Minnesota's $140M Hemp Industry

11/13/2025

Summary

Story summary

A federal spending bill provision could ban hemp-derived THC products, threatening Minnesota's $140 million industry.
The bill restricts THC to 0.4 milligrams per container, banning popular products that contain 5-10 milligrams.
Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison supports the ban for public safety, while opponents argue it endangers small businesses and jobs.
The U.S. Senate passed the provision 76-24, with Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith voting against it.
If enacted, the ban would take effect in one year, raising concerns about the industry's future.

History

Historical Context

The Hemp Farming Act of 2018 legalized hemp cultivation in the U.S., transforming it into a $140 million industry by allowing states like Minnesota to produce hemp-derived products. However, a recent federal spending bill proposal to limit THC content threatens this market, reflecting ongoing tensions between regulation and industry growth in the cannabis sector, which has seen significant changes since the 2014 Farm Bill.

1 of 2

Story summary

A federal spending bill provision could ban hemp-derived THC products, threatening Minnesota's $140 million industry.
The bill restricts THC to 0.4 milligrams per container, banning popular products that contain 5-10 milligrams.
Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison supports the ban for public safety, while opponents argue it endangers small businesses and jobs.
The U.S. Senate passed the provision 76-24, with Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith voting against it.
If enacted, the ban would take effect in one year, raising concerns about the industry's future.

1 / 2