INDUSTRY UPDATES

March 19, 2018

Help Us Write Hemp Standards and Practices

U.S. Hemp Roundtable

Since founded last year, the U.S. Hemp Roundtable’s most prominent mission has been advocating for the passage of federal legislation to permanently legalize hemp. We won’t rest until we reach that goal. But another founding mission of the Roundtable is the professional establishment of hemp as an agricultural commodity.

Hemp is not marijuana, and should not be treated as a controlled substance. But like other agricultural commodities, it is critical for the hemp industry to establish best practices and standards, and promote self-regulation. Self-regulation is important to consumers because they want to be sure they are purchasing products that are reliable, healthy, sustainable, and non-toxic. It is important to law enforcement because we need them to understand our hemp products are legal and can’t get you high. That’s why the Roundtable has established the U.S. Hemp Guidance Program – a multi-year effort to develop practices, standards and self-regulation for the industry.

The U.S. Hemp Roundtable’s Technical Committee, a grouping of industry experts culled by R oundtable Members, meets regularly to determine the key rules and protocols going forward. Early next year, we will launch a self-regulating organization (SRO) that will define and monitor best practices for the industry. One of the key products will be a medallion or seal that can be placed on every hemp product that meets the industry’s rigorous standards. That medallion will give confidence to consumers and law enforcement that designated hemp products are safe and legal. We’d love to have your involvement in the process:

  • If you’d like to participate in the critical work of the Technical Committee, you need to be a Member of the Roundtable. Here’show to join.
  • Any citizen can offer public comment on our process. To participate, you simply need to sign up (for free) as a Hemp Supporter.
  • You can get started now by reviewing and reacting to the Technical Committee’s Phase One Report.

The Guidance Program and SRO are critical to the industry’s growth and development. Please get involved in this important work.