When you’re reading content about CBD and other cannabis products and wonder whether they are legal or not, one term often pops up: the 2018 Farm Bill. But what is it? And should you be thankful it passed?
The answer is yes; by removing hemp from the federal list of controlled substances, the bill set the stage for farmers, businesses, and consumers to explore the potential of hemp-derived products like CBD.
...But there is more to it, and we’ll teach you how it influenced not only cannabis products and consumers, but businesses, local economies, and some lesser-known benefits.
The primary purpose of the Farm Bill is to support agricultural producers, improve food security, and promote rural development. By establishing a legal framework for hemp, the 2018 Farm Bill wanted to foster innovation and growth within the CBD market while providing clear guidelines for its cultivation and use.
Officially called the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, this bill legalized the production of industrial hemp, which includes hemp-derived CBD, marking a major shift in federal policy regarding cannabis.
But what did the bill contain?
The 2018 Farm Bill removed hemp (defined as cannabis containing no more than 0.3% THC) from the list of controlled substances. This legalization allows farmers to cultivate hemp for various purposes, including CBD extraction, thereby expanding market opportunities for agricultural producers.
However, the 2018 Farm Bill is a federal law that grants states the authority to develop their regulatory frameworks for hemp production, provided they comply with federal standards.
It’s not just about making cannabis products with no more than 0.3% THC legal. It’s also about the need for quality control and regulatory oversight. This focus helps ensure that CBD products meet safety and efficacy standards, fostering consumer trust.
By removing hemp from the list of controlled substances, the bill created a clear legal distinction between hemp and marijuana, allowing for the cultivation of hemp that contains less than or equal to 0.3% THC.
With the legalization of hemp, farmers across the country can now grow hemp for CBD extraction without the legal uncertainties that previously hampered the industry. This increased accessibility has led to a surge in hemp farming, resulting in greater availability of CBD products on the market.
That’s why we now have a wide variety of CBD products, including oils, creams, edibles, and more. Consumers now have access to an extensive range of options tailored to their preferences and needs, promoting the growth of this diverse market.
Who controls the implementation of the 2018 Farm Bill?
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is responsible for regulating the market, particularly regarding labeling, marketing, and safety standards.
It’s not all about business & economy. The 2018 Farm Bill brought significant benefits to consumers. Let’s see the greatest ones:
With the legalization of hemp, you now have access to a broader range of hemp-derived products, particularly CBD. This expanded availability means that you can find various formulations, such as oils, tinctures, topicals, and edibles, tailored to your specific health and wellness needs.
The Farm Bill encourages states to develop their own regulatory frameworks for hemp production, which can include quality control measures. This emphasis on regulation helps ensure that products meet safety standards, providing you with more confidence in the quality and efficacy of the CBD products you purchase.
You have clearer information regarding product ingredients, sourcing, and dosage recommendations, making it easier to make informed choices about your health and wellness.
The legalization of hemp has opened the door for further research into the benefits and uses of CBD. As studies continue to emerge, you’ll have access to more information about how CBD can positively impact your body & mind. And when you’re equipped with knowledge, it’s easier to choose cannabis products that suit your needs and incorporate them into your wellness routines.