Rep. Morgan Griffith (R-VA) and Rep. Marc Veasey (D-TX) Introduce New Bipartisan HEMP Act to Create FDA Framework for Hemp Products

Today (January 23), Rep. Morgan Griffith (R-VA) and Rep. Marc Veasey (D-TX) introduced the Hemp Enforcement, Modernization, and Protection (HEMP) Act, bipartisan legislation that would establish the first-ever federal regulatory pathway for hemp-derived products intended for human use under the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

For years, the hemp industry has operated without clear federal guidance—leaving states to adopt inconsistent and often conflicting rules. This patchwork approach has created uncertainty for businesses, confusion for consumers, and real challenges for farmers and manufacturers trying to operate responsibly. While the HEMP Act represents an important starting point, it requires significant improvements before it can effectively serve the needs of the hemp industry.

“The U.S. Hemp Roundtable is deeply grateful to Congressman Morgan Griffith for his introduction of critical legislation to robustly regulate hemp products.  We have been very impressed with the Congressman’s continuing willingness to listen to the input of hemp farmers and businesses, as well as to the millions of consumers, seniors, and veterans who overwhelmingly favor regulation over prohibition.  We also appreciate his openness to the need for substantive improvements to the bill before it is formally considered,” said Jonathan Miller, General Counsel of the U.S. Hemp Roundtable.

While the HEMP Act is a step toward a long-term federal framework, there is still substantial work ahead to ensure it is workable, fair, and effective. As Miller emphasized, securing a two-year extension of the hemp ban moratorium remains essential to give Congress the runway needed to enact lasting federal policy. That extension is included in Rep. Jim Baird’s bipartisan Hemp Planting Predictability Act (H.R. 7024), along with its Senate companion, S. 3686, introduced by Sen. Amy Klobuchar (D-MN)—both of which are critical to protecting the 2026 planting season.

Key elements of the HEMP Act include:

• Establishing FDA oversight for hemp-derived (CBD) products
• Creating a unified federal framework to replace inconsistent state laws
• Explicitly excluding cannabis, clearly distinguishing it from federally legal hemp
• Requiring FDA to set milligram limits for CBD products, with an automatic backstop if the agency fails to act within three years

The U.S. Hemp Roundtable has long advocated for responsible federal regulation that protects consumers while allowing the hemp industry to thrive. Our priority is securing the two-year extension and ensuring any federal framework is thoughtfully developed and improved before being finalized.

What You Can Do Right Now

Take Action: Contact your Members of Congress today and urge them to support the two-year extension included in the Hemp Planting Predictability Act and work toward improving the HEMP Act. Send a message using our Federal Action Center now and then share with everyone you know: https://hempsupporter.com/federal-action/

Your voice can help secure a clear, science-based framework that protects consumers and strengthens the hemp industry. Click here to share you recommendations on improvements to the HEMP Act. View the full bill here: HERE.