In 2018, the United States witnessed a pivotal moment in agricultural and economic policy with the passing of the 2018 Farm Bill. While primarily focused on traditional agriculture, this legislation significantly impacted the hemp industry. Subsequently, it led to the emergence of dispensaries in Wisconsin (like TerraSol!) and other states where cannabis remains illegal for recreational use.
2018 Farm Bill: The Reason For Dispensaries in Wisconsin
Origins and Passage
The Farm Bill is a comprehensive piece of legislation typically renewed every five years, encompassing a broad range of agricultural and food programs. The 2018 iteration was no exception. However, what set it apart was the inclusion of provisions pertaining to hemp cultivation and production.
The bill was a bipartisan effort primarily authored by members of the Senate and House Agriculture Committees such as Senator Pat Roberts, a Republican from Kansas, and Senator Debbie Stabenow, a Democrat from Michigan. Ultimately, the final version of the bill reflected input from numerous senators, representatives, agricultural stakeholders, and interested parties across the political spectrum.
Signed into law on December 20, 2018, by former President Donald Trump, the bill reflected a growing recognition of the economic potential of hemp.
What Does the Bill State?
Traditionally grouped with marijuana under federal law, hemp was classified as a Schedule I controlled substance due to its association with the psychoactive compound THC found in marijuana. However, the 2018 Farm Bill removed hemp from this classification, distinguishing it as a separate agricultural commodity. This change opened the door for the legal cultivation, processing, and sale of hemp and its derivatives, such as cannabidiol (CBD).
Crucially, the bill stipulates that hemp must contain no more than 0.3% THC on a dry weight basis. This negligible THC content is key, as it ensures that hemp-derived products do not produce the intoxicating effects associated with marijuana use. Consequently, products derived from hemp, including CBD oils, edibles, and topicals, became widely available across the country, even in states where recreational marijuana remains illegal.
The Impact: Consumers, Dispensaries in Wisconsin, and Beyond
The effects of the 2018 Farm Bill have been plentiful. For consumers, it has heralded a new era of access to hemp products touted for their potential therapeutic benefits. From alleviating anxiety to managing chronic pain, consumers have embraced hemp as a natural alternative to traditional pharmaceuticals.
For businesses, particularly in states like Wisconsin where recreational marijuana remains prohibited, the Farm Bill has unlocked a lucrative market opportunity. Dispensaries like TerraSol offering hemp-derived products have soared, catering to a diverse clientele seeking wellness solutions.
Moreover, the legalization of hemp cultivation has revitalized rural economies, providing farmers with a lucrative cash crop and stimulating job growth in processing and retail sectors.
From Bill To Birth: TerraSol’s Emergence
By legalizing hemp cultivation and production, the 2018 Farm Bill has not only empowered consumers with access to CBD products but also catalyzed economic opportunities for businesses, including dispensaries operating in states like Wisconsin where recreational marijuana remains illegal.
Here at TerraSol, we offer a range of hemp-derived products, including flower, topicals, concentrates, and infused edibles in accordance with all Wisconsin and federal laws pertaining to the 2018 Farm Bill, as it applies to Delta 9 THC. Besides Delta 9-compliant products, we also sell a variety of THC variants such as Delta 8, Delta 10, HHC, THC-V, & D9-O
As the hemp industry continues to flourish, propelled by the provisions of the Farm Bill, we look forward to watching its impact on agriculture, commerce, and public health endure for years to come. Become a part of this ever-growing wellness movement when you visit TerraSol in-store in Milwaukee or Menomonee Falls, or shop online!
