Doc's Hemp Digest where we chew on all things hemp!

What’s Going On With Hemp, THC, and the Government?

We’ve been getting questions — and we understand why.
If you’ve seen headlines or heard rumors about hemp, THC, or CBD being “banned,” “redefined,” or suddenly disappearing, you’re not alone. The language around hemp can feel confusing, and the news cycle doesn’t always tell the whole story.
Our goal with this Digest is simple: to keep you informed without creating fear — and to share what actually matters for you and your animals.

So, what’s happening?

Hemp-derived products, including CBD, have been federally legal since the 2018 Farm Bill, as long as they contain no more than 0.3% delta-9 THC on a dry-weight basis.
Recently — and especially over the past few months — lawmakers and regulatory agencies have been revisiting how hemp-derived cannabinoids are defined and regulated. Much of this conversation is aimed at intoxicating and synthetic THC products that were never the original intent of hemp legislation.
Unfortunately, when these discussions happen, responsible, compliant hemp companies can get swept into the confusion — even when they’re doing everything right.

What this means for Doc’s Hemp

Nothing about who we are or how we operate has changed.
• Our hemp is USDA Organic
• Our products are made from naturally occurring cannabinoids
• Every batch is third-party tested
• THC levels remain well within legal limits
• We do not use synthetic or intoxicating cannabinoids
We’ve always believed that transparency and integrity matter — and that hasn’t wavered.

Why full-spectrum hemp matters

Full-spectrum hemp contains a naturally balanced profile of cannabinoids, including trace amounts of THC that remain far below the legal threshold.
These compounds work together to support the body’s endocannabinoid system — a concept often referred to as the entourage effect. It’s one of the reasons so many horses, dogs, and cats respond so well to gentle, whole-plant support.
While removing THC entirely may sound simple, it can also remove part of what makes hemp effective in the first place.

Why you may be hearing conflicting messages

Some of the current discussions center on:
  • Closing loopholes around intoxicating THC products

  • Redefining how THC is measured in certain products

  • Clarifying distinctions between hemp and marijuana

These conversations are ongoing — and they can sound alarming when taken out of context. But discussion does not equal immediate change.

A timely update (January–February 2026)

Here’s where things stand right now:
  1. Hemp-derived CBD is still legal today under current federal law when products meet the Farm Bill standard (≤0.3% delta-9 THC on a dry-weight basis).

  2. Congress is actively debating what happens next. In January, lawmakers introduced new federal proposals that take two different approaches at once:

    • Some are seeking to delay upcoming restrictions to prevent disruption while rules are clarified.

    • Others are seeking to create a clearer federal regulatory framework for hemp-derived products like CBD.

  3. Implementation details are a big source of uncertainty. In February, attention has focused on how federal agencies define key terms (like what counts as a “container”) and how cannabinoids are classified — because those definitions shape how any future rules are applied in the real world.

It’s also important to note that conversations around marijuana policy at the federal level do not automatically change hemp law, nor do they make compliant, full-spectrum CBD products illegal.
Because certain federal changes are currently scheduled for late 2026 unless Congress amends them, there is still an opportunity for lawmakers to clarify or adjust the path forward.
If you feel moved to do so, one meaningful way to help is by contacting your U.S. Senators and House Representative and sharing how quality-of-life hemp products have supported your animals. Personal, respectful stories matter — especially when lawmakers are weighing how regulations affect families, veterinarians, small businesses, and the animals in our care.
You can find your federal representatives by visiting:
 www.senate.gov (to locate your U.S. Senators)
 www.house.gov (to locate your U.S. Representative)
Most offices provide a simple online contact form where you can share your perspective.
We are closely monitoring developments, staying engaged with industry groups, and advocating for responsible hemp. If anything meaningful changes, you’ll hear it from us first — clearly, calmly, and transparently.

Why we continue to speak up

Sudden banking restrictions, payment processor challenges, and regulatory uncertainty have made it harder for ethical hemp companies to operate — even when following every rule.
We believe:
Animals deserve access to gentle, plant-based wellness support
Education matters more than fear
Small, mission-driven companies should not be pushed aside by confusion
This is why we remain committed to doing things the right way — and to keeping this community informed.

Thank you for being here

Thank you for supporting thoughtful, transparent hemp — and for trusting us with the care of your horses, dogs, and cats.
We’re grateful for this community and honored to walk this evolving landscape together.
💚
Steph & Dr. Harman
Doc’s Hemp

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