Federal Ban on Hemp-Derived Cannabinoids Signed Into Law

Update — November 12, 2025

Congress Passes and President Signs Hemp-Derived Cannabinoid Ban

The U.S. House of Representatives has approved, and the President has now signed, H.R. 5371, enacting a federal ban on hemp-derived cannabinoids (“HDCs”).

The new law applies to any combination of cannabinoids exceeding 0.3% total THC or 0.4 milligrams per container, and takes effect November 12, 2026.

Tennessee-licensed retailers may continue to sell hemp-derived products containing less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC until June 30, 2026, unless the state legislature changes its laws sooner.

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‍Original post below:

Nov. 11, 2025 — The U.S. Senate has approved government-funding legislation that includes a sweeping ban on hemp-derived cannabinoids (“HDCs”).

As part of H.R. 5371, passed Sunday, November 9, the Senate inserted language that would dramatically restrict the manufacture, sale, and possession of most hemp-derived products currently on the market. The HDC ban would take effect one year after the bill is signed into law.

What the Bill Does

If enacted, the measure would:

• Redefine HDCs under a total THC standard instead of Delta-9 only.
• Criminalize cultivation, distribution, and possession of products containing:
  
  
  • Cannabinoids not naturally produced by the hemp plant.
    
  • Cannabinoids synthesized outside the plant; or
    
  • More than 0.3% total combined THC, THCA, or other THC-like cannabinoids.‍
• Restrict intoxicating cannabinoids to 0.4 milligrams per individual retail container.‍
• Require the FDA to publish a list of naturally occurring and THC-class cannabinoids within 90 days of passage.

Under the 2018 Farm Bill, only the Delta-9 THC concentration determined legality. H.R. 5371 changes that calculation—treating all cannabinoids cumulatively. In effect, this would make nearly every existing HDC product illegal to produce or sell.

What Happens Next

For the legislation to become law, it must still:

1. Pass the House of Representatives, and
2. Be signed by the President.

Given the bill’s role in funding the federal government, it’s expected to move quickly once the House votes—possibly as soon as Wednesday, November 12.

If passed without change, most hemp-derived products could be prohibited by October 2026.

How to Stay Involved

Stakeholders are encouraged to contact their federal representatives and voice opinions about the proposed changes. The year-long implementation period offers a window for dialogue and potential legislative adjustment. Find your elected officials here: https://www.congress.gov/members/find-your-member

How Hemp Law Group Can Help

The Hemp Law Group advises cultivators, manufacturers, and distributors navigating complex federal and state hemp regulations.
If you’d like guidance on how this legislation could affect your business—or help preparing for upcoming changes—schedule a 15-minute consultation with Clint Palmer, Compliance Director at Hemp Law Group by clicking here: https://cal.com/clint/15min

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