President Trump urges Congress to safeguard hemp-derived CBD access, championing its benefits for millions amid looming federal restrictions and a potential shift in cannabis policy.
In a Truth Social post Thursday, President Trump called on Congress to act fast to make sure Americans can continue to obtain full-spectrum CBD products. The call came the same day Trump's acting attorney general, Todd Blanche, signed an order reclassifying medical marijuana as a Schedule III substance under the Controlled Substances Act.
The call also came as many CBD products face a threat from the impending imposition of new federal restrictions on hemp products passed by Congress last year and set to go into effect in November.
"In December, I signed a very important Executive Order calling for Research and Innovation for Hemp-derived CBD — Something that has made a HUGE difference for so many people," Trump wrote. "In fact, ONE in FIVE adults used it in the past year, and many say it improved their chronic pain enormously. Our wonderful Dr. Mehmet Oz moved fast to follow the directive in the Executive Order and launched a model for some Seniors earlier this month.
"But more must be done! I am calling on Congress to update the Law to ensure that Americans can continue to access the full-spectrum CBD products they have come to rely on, and that help them, while preserving Congress's intent to restrict the sale of products that pose Health risks. We must get this done RIGHT and FAST, especially for those who saw that CBD helps them. Plus, I am told it will also help our GREAT FARMERS, who we love, and will always be there for. Please get it done, and SOON. Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP"
The US Hemp Roundtable liked what it was hearing. In an email blast to supporters, the industry group wrote: "President Trump just publicly recognized what millions of Americans already know: hemp-derived CBD products matter to consumers, support farmers, and deserve a responsible regulatory framework- not prohibition. With an impending federal ban set to take effect this November, Congress must act quickly to preserve access to safe, legal hemp products while establishing clear safeguards for consumers. The US hemp industry is ready to work with policymakers on a solution that protects farmers, small businesses, and the Americans who rely on these products every day."