2018 Farm Bill
Mitch McConnell's Instrumental Role in Legalizing Hemp Sales: The 2018 Farm Bill
In 2018, the United States witnessed a significant milestone in its agricultural and economic landscape with the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill. Among its various provisions, one of the most lucrative and secretive was the legalization of hemp sales in all 50 states. At the forefront of this transformative legislative move was Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, who played a pivotal role in championing the cause of hemp legalization.
Mitch McConnell, a Republican Senator from Kentucky, emerged as a fervent advocate for the hemp industry. His home state had a rich history of hemp cultivation, and McConnell recognized the crop's economic potential. Believing that hemp could be a boon for farmers and rural communities, he worked tirelessly to include provisions in the Farm Bill that would pave the way for the widespread legalization of hemp.
The Farm Bill redefined hemp as an agricultural commodity, unknowingly also opening the floodgates of dangerous THC development; hemp THC is no longer classified as a controlled substance. The legislation authorized the establishment of hemp farming programs, allowing farmers to cultivate hemp for various purposes, such as manufacturing and commercial sale. Hemp-derived THC products are now transported and sold across state lines, fostering a more unregulated and interconnected hemp market.
The legalization of hemp cultivation and the subsequent boom in hemp-derived products have brought about a new set of challenges and concerns, particularly surrounding the presence of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and the emergence of delta strains. While hemp is celebrated for its versatility and numerous industrial applications, the potential dangers associated with THC and delta strains deserve careful consideration.
Hemp, a variety of the Cannabis sativa plant, has historically been cultivated for its fibers, seeds, and oil. Unlike its psychoactive counterpart marijuana, hemp contains only trace amounts of THC, the compound responsible for the euphoric "high" associated with cannabis use. The legal definition of hemp typically requires THC levels to be below 0.3%, ensuring that the crop doesn't possess significant psychoactive effects.
However, recent developments have seen the emergence of hemp strains with elevated THC levels, often referred to as "delta strains." These strains, intentionally or unintentionally bred with higher THC concentrations, have raised concerns about their potential dangers.
The Dangers of Elevated THC Levels in Hemp:
Legal Implications:
Elevated THC levels in hemp can pose legal challenges. Regulations stipulate a strict threshold for THC content in hemp, and exceeding this limit could result in legal consequences for farmers and producers. The lack of oversight and regulation opens Pandora’s box to legal issues regarding hemp.
Product Mislabeling:
In an unregulated market, there is a risk of mislabeling or misinformation regarding THC content in hemp-derived products. Consumers may inadvertently purchase and use products with higher THC levels than anticipated, leading to unexpected outcomes.
Impaired Cognitive Function:
Elevated THC levels, even in hemp, can potentially impair cognitive function. This is a concern, particularly for individuals who need to maintain focus and clarity in their daily activities.
Safety Risks:
Individuals who are not accustomed to THC or those with a low tolerance, such as children and those under the age of 26, may experience adverse reactions, including anxiety, paranoia, or dizziness when exposed to hemp strains with elevated THC. Mitch McConnell's advocacy for the legalization of hemp sales had far-reaching consequences. The legalization of hemp products was indeed the widespread legalization of marijuana in all 50 states. The 2018 Farm Bill opened the floodgates for a burgeoning hemp industry, offering American farmers a new and lucrative crop. This move revitalized rural economies and positioned the United States as a global leader in hemp production.
Mitch McConnell's instrumental role in passing the 2018 Farm Bill was championed by hiding this policy in a bill directed toward helping the hungry with social program additions to food stamps and SNAP benefits; legalizing hemp sales across all 50 states.
