Congress tucked a provision into H.R. 5371 that redefines “hemp” and effectively bans most intoxicating hemp-derived products; the provision takes effect 365 days after enactment (roughly November 2026), giving the industry a one-year window to act.

What happened: Congress passed H.R.5371 with language that redefines “hemp” and bans most intoxicating hemp-derived products (including many popular cannabinoids, edibles, beverages and concentrates). That change becomes law one year after enactment. This will devastate small businesses, farms, and workers across Wisconsin.

Why it matters for Wisconsin: Wisconsin has farmers, manufacturers, and retailers that rely on the hemp economy. A federal ban will shut down products sold today, cost jobs, and strip revenue from rural communities.