INDUSTRY UPDATES

April 06, 2026

Immediate Action Needed to Save the Missouri Hemp Industry

Missouri’s hemp industry is facing an existential threat. HB 2641 is now on the Governor’s desk awaiting signature, and as written, it would fundamentally dismantle the state’s lawful hemp marketplace.

HB 2641 is not a simple safety measure; it is a structural overhaul that reclassifies hemp-derived cannabinoid products as “marijuana” and requires that they be manufactured, distributed, and sold exclusively through Article XIV-licensed marijuana facilities.

This means that hundreds of existing Missouri hemp businesses, including retailers, manufacturers, and farmers operating in compliance with federal law, would be excluded from the market overnight.

As drafted, the bill:

  • Reclassifies hemp-derived cannabinoid products as marijuana under Missouri law
  • Limits all sales to licensed marijuana facilities, shutting out existing hemp businesses
  • Imposes a 0.4 mg total THC per container limit on final products, effectively eliminating nearly all products currently on the market
  • Creates broad and ambiguous restrictions on cannabinoids based on “similar effects”
  • Subjects non-compliant operators to significant penalties, including fines and potential criminal liability
    Penalties

The result is a forced consolidation of the market into a limited number of licensed operators, with immediate and significant consequences for Missouri’s economy. If signed into law, HB 2641 would lead to:

  • Widespread business closures across the state
  • Job losses throughout the hemp supply chain
  • Reduced consumer access to lawful, regulated products
  • Disruption for farmers, processors, and small businesses

Missouri can and should adopt reasonable, science-based regulations for hemp products, including age restrictions, testing standards, and labeling requirements. However, HB 2641 does not regulate the existing marketplace. Instead, it replaces it entirely.

Missouri Residents –  We Need you to Take Action now: Contact Governor Kehoe and respectfully request a veto of HB 2641.

A veto would provide the opportunity for stakeholders, regulators, and lawmakers to work together on a balanced approach that protects consumers without eliminating Missouri’s hemp industry.

Use our state action center to send your message: Urge a Veto of HB 2641

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