Cannabis Industry Insights

Did Donald Trump Legalize Cannabis? The 2018 Farm Bill’s Impact on the Marijuana Plant

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Bud Tender

On October 28, 2024

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Did Donald Trump Legalize Cannabis? The 2018 Farm Bill’s Impact on the Marijuana Plant

Introduction

In December 2018, Donald Trump made history by signing the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, more commonly known as the 2018 Farm Bill. While the bill covered various agricultural policies, its most significant contribution was the legalization of hemp in the United States. This decision transformed the cannabis industry, paving the way for legal hemp-derived products, including CBD and Delta-8 THC, across the nation.

The Impact of Trump’s Signature: Hemp Legalization

When Donald Trump signed the Farm Bill, he effectively removed hemp from the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), where it had been classified as a Schedule I drug, along with marijuana. By doing so, the bill made it legal to grow, process, and sell industrial hemp, provided that the THC content did not exceed 0.3% by dry weight.

This change was monumental for the cannabis industry, as it distinguished hemp from marijuana, which contains higher levels of THC. Trump’s signature on the 2018 Farm Bill marked a turning point for the production of hemp-derived CBD and other cannabinoids, leading to a surge in consumer interest and a rapidly growing market.

The Rise of Hemp-Derived Products

Following the legalization of hemp, the production and sale of hemp-derived products exploded. CBD (cannabidiol), a non-psychoactive cannabinoid known for its potential therapeutic benefits, became widely available in forms such as oils, edibles, and topicals. Consumers turned to CBD for relief from conditions like anxiety, pain, and insomnia, without the intoxicating effects of THC.

In addition to CBD, other hemp-derived cannabinoids like Delta-8 THC have gained popularity for providing milder psychoactive effects compared to traditional Delta-9 THC. The 2018 Farm Bill created a legal framework that allowed these products to thrive, as long as they remained within the 0.3% THC threshold.

Legal Hemp Under the 2018 Farm Bill

Under the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp is defined as Cannabis sativa with less than 0.3% THC. This includes all parts of the plant, from seeds to extracts. The bill legalized not only the cultivation of hemp but also the sale of hemp-derived products like CBD, THCa, and Delta-8 THC, provided they met the legal THC limit.

It’s important to note, however, that while hemp-derived products are legal at the federal level, individual states may have their own regulations regarding the sale and use of certain cannabinoids. Always check state laws to ensure compliance.

Products to Try: CBD, Delta-8, and More

Thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill, consumers can now legally purchase a variety of hemp-derived products. Here are some popular options:

Karmel Kandy THCa Flower: This hemp-derived flower is rich in THCa, offering a potent yet legal alternative to marijuana.
Rainbow Sour Belt Delta-9 Edibles: For a delicious and discreet way to enjoy hemp-derived THC, these Delta-9 edibles are a must-try.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Hemp-Derived Products

Trump’s decision to legalize hemp under the 2018 Farm Bill was a game-changer for the cannabis industry, and its effects are still being felt today. With the growing demand for CBD, Delta-8 THC, and other hemp-derived cannabinoids, the industry continues to evolve. While federal legalization of marijuana remains uncertain, the groundwork laid by the Farm Bill has opened new doors for legal cannabis products in the U.S.

Conclusion

When Donald Trump signed the 2018 Farm Bill, he didn’t just support farmers—he also unlocked the potential for a booming hemp industry. With the legalization of hemp, consumers now have access to a wide range of hemp-derived products that are legal and widely available. To learn more about cannabis products and their benefits, check out our articles page for in-depth coverage of everything from cannabinoids to cultivation.