California Judge Denies Temporary Restraining Order on Hemp Ban, Impacting Industry

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California Judge Denies Temporary Restraining Order on Hemp Ban, Impacting Industry

A recent update in a legal battle involving hemp advocates and businesses in California reveals that a judge has sided with the state government in denying a temporary restraining order aimed at preventing the enforcement of a ban on hemp products with detectable THC levels. The ban, put into effect through emergency regulations on September 23, prohibits the sale of consumable hemp goods containing any detectable delta-9 THC or intoxicating cannabinoids like delta-8 THC, along with limiting product servings per package and restricting sales to individuals 21 and older.

The decision to maintain the ban has raised concerns among hemp advocates, stating that it could have severe consequences for the industry, particularly impacting businesses that offer non-intoxicating hemp products known for their potential therapeutic benefits. The ruling against the temporary restraining order reinforces Governor Newsom's stance on the matter, leading to a scenario where residents in California may lose access to USDA-certified organic hemp products that are free of pesticides and undergo third-party lab testing.

According to Jim Higdon, the CCO and co-founder of Cornbread Hemp and a member of the U.S. Hemp Roundtable, the judge's decision aligns with Governor Newsom's position but contradicts common sense, especially at a time when the cannabis dispensary system in California is facing credibility issues due to pesticide contamination. Higdon emphasizes the importance of access to USDA-certified organic hemp products for consumers seeking pesticide-free options amidst the regulatory challenges in the state's cannabis market. The legal battle over the ban is expected to continue, with the hemp industry gearing up to challenge its legality in court as the case progresses.