California hemp farmers challenge Newsom's THC ban in court
- Governor Gavin Newsom enacted emergency regulations on September 23, banning hemp products with detectable THC in California.
- The U.S. Hemp Roundtable and local businesses filed a petition for a temporary restraining order, claiming the ban is unlawful and harmful to the industry.
- The outcome of the hearing on October 10 could significantly impact the future of hemp products and businesses in California.
In California, the U.S. Hemp Roundtable, Cheech and Chong's Cannabis Company, and several local hemp farmers filed a petition for a temporary restraining order against Governor Gavin Newsom's emergency regulations banning hemp products with any detectable THC. This ban, effective September 23, threatens to eliminate 90-95% of hemp products from the market, impacting small businesses and the broader hemp industry. Plaintiffs argue that the state declared an emergency without justification and failed to follow existing hemp legislation from 2021. They seek to halt the enforcement of these regulations while their legal challenge proceeds, claiming irreparable harm to the industry. The hearing for the TRO is scheduled for October 10, where the Hemp Roundtable's regulatory counsel will present the case, emphasizing the need for a balanced regulatory approach that protects both public health and the interests of hemp farmers and businesses.