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Sunmed Raises Alarm Over Federal Hemp Restrictions

Sunmed™ | Your CBD Store® | Modern Wellness™ recently voiced strong opposition to newly signed federal legislation that fundamentally alters the legal definition of hemp within U.S. law. This alarming development could have drastic implications for the hemp-derived products that millions of consumers rely on for therapeutic benefits. With estimates indicating that up to 90% of hemp wellness products could become illegal, the future of over 300,000 jobs and numerous small businesses across the country is in jeopardy.

Legislative Background

The contentious provisions regarding hemp were clandestinely included in the FY2026 Agriculture Appropriations Bill, which Congress approved swiftly to reopen the federal government. This last-minute insertion raised eyebrows as it bypassed standard legislative procedures, including hearings and committee reviews. Though there were bipartisan efforts, notably by Senator Rand Paul, to address the ban’s ramifications, the urgency of the overall bill meant that lawmakers felt compelled to pass it, potentially at the cost of a flourishing industry.

Senator Paul encapsulated the urgency of the situation by stating, "The issue at hand is a last-minute federal ban slipped into the funding bill that would recriminalize legal hemp crops and shut down farms across the country. If there are bad actors selling high-potency products in gas stations, then the solution is regulation, not destroying a $28 billion industry and the rural communities who depend on it."

Timing and Future Prospects

While the law has now been enacted, it is crucial to highlight that the new definition of hemp will not be active for 365 days following its signing. This timeline provides an opportunity for Congress to revisit and hopefully rectify the situation with more balanced regulations based on scientific evidence. Sunmed remains cautiously optimistic that, within this critical year, legislators can introduce favorable legislation to protect hemp wellness products and the industry at large.

Regulatory Affairs Senior Manager at Sunmed, Patrick Shatzer, expressed the company’s commitment, stating, "This next year will be critical. We've faced challenges before and prevailed through unity and science-based dialogue. Sunmed is committed to helping shape the future of responsible hemp regulation—one that protects consumers, supports small businesses, and sustains the growth of modern wellness."

Continued Operations and Consumer Advocacy

In light of these developments, Sunmed is resolute in its mission to provide consumers with safe, high-quality hemp products. The company assures its customers that all locations will remain operational and continue offering their trusted wellness products. Furthermore, the public is encouraged to engage in advocacy by contacting their U.S. Representatives and Senators to voice opposition to the newly implemented restrictions.

With significant updates anticipated in the coming months, consumers and industry stakeholders alike are urged to stay informed and active in the dialogue concerning hemp regulation. Sunmed's proactive stance emphasizes the need for a bright future for the hemp industry amid challenging circumstances. By educating the public and pushing for constructive reform, Sunmed aims to protect the integrity of the wellness products that millions depend on, ensuring a balanced approach to hemp regulation that benefits everyone involved.