| On January 22nd, the U.S. Hemp Roundtable proudly hosted a successful Washington, D.C. fly-in, marking a pivotal moment in federal hemp advocacy. More than 35 companies from across the nation joined forces for this extraordinary effort, participating in over 50 meetings with congressional offices from 15 states.
Among these impactful discussions, Roundtable members engaged directly with four U.S. Senators and four members of the House of Representatives and the staffs of dozens more. Notably, Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR), a long-standing hemp champion, addressed Roundtable members and Congressional staffers regarding the forthcoming re-introduction of his Cannabinoid Safety and Regulation Act.
During Senator Wyden’s remarks, he stated, “What we need is regulation, not prohibition, because banning hemp products won’t keep them out of the hands of kids.” He continued, saying, “Take the unsafe stuff off the market, inform consumers about what is safe—that’s the way you’re going to help farmers, businesses, and get this done.”
The Senator ended his remarks encouraging a bipartisan and bicameral approach, invigorating our advocacy efforts, and laying the roadmap for finally accomplishing federal regulation of hemp products.
Additionally, several of the 50+ meetings included visits with some of the most influential offices in Congress that shape hemp policy under the new administration. These included:
- Senator John Thune (R-SD): As Senate Majority Leader, Senator Thune holds one of the most powerful positions in Congress.
- Representative Angie Craig (D-MN): As Ranking Member of the House Agriculture Committee, Representative Craig is the most influential Democrat overseeing the Farm Bill.
- Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN): Senator Klobuchar, like Representative Craig, is the ranking Democrat in the Senate responsible for oversight of the Farm Bill.
- Representative Brett Guthrie (R-KY): As Chair of the House Energy & Commerce Committee, Congressman Guthrie oversees the FDA, which is critical to hemp regulation.
- Senator Mitch McConnell (R-KY): A key architect of the 2018 Farm Bill, Senator McConnell will remain an important ally as discussions surrounding the next Farm Bill advance.
Key topics of discussion included advocating for the re-introduction of Senator Wyden’s Cannabinoid Safety and Regulation Act, strengthening FDA regulation of hemp-derived products, providing a clear path for responsible hemp companies to thrive, and ensuring farmers, manufacturers, and consumers benefit from a fair, transparent marketplace.
The energy from these meetings was undeniable, with legislators and staffers engaging in thoughtful conversations about the future of hemp.
As we look forward to 2025, this fly-in represents more than just a successful day of lobbying—it signals a turning point for federal hemp policy. With Senator Wyden’s leadership and the dedicated efforts of our members, we are closer than ever to achieving the policy changes that will enable the hemp industry to realize its full potential.
A heartfelt thank-you to all the companies and individuals who made this event a success. Your voices are being heard, and together, we are shaping the future of hemp.
Stay tuned as we continue to advocate for hemp-friendly legislation in the new year. Learn more about how to get involved below! |
