At Upstate Elevator, we believe in progress, safety, and consumer choice—not prohibition. That’s why we’re speaking out against a concerning development in Washington, D.C.: the FY2026 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill that would ban hemp-derived THC and THCA flower nationwide.
This proposal, advanced by a House subcommittee along party lines, threatens to undermine years of responsible innovation and regulatory progress in the hemp industry. While we fully support sensible regulation, this sweeping ban would eliminate safe, legal access to products enjoyed by millions of adults across the country, and it would unfairly target responsible businesses like ours.
What’s in the Proposal?
The amendment, spearheaded by Rep. Andy Harris (R-MD), seeks to ban hemp-derived cannabinoids such as Delta-9 THC and THCA, even when derived from federally legal hemp plants. If passed, this measure would dismantle a $19.6 billion dollar industry, eliminate thousands of jobs, and reduce access to products many consumers rely on for their daily wellness routines.
Even traditional players including the Wine and Spirits Wholesalers of America have spoken out, warning that this proposal would override state-level regulations that require age verification, THC caps, and other important safeguards. According to the group, Harris’ bill “would undermine those state actions and do nothing to eliminate bad actors who irresponsibly market potentially harmful products.”
We agree.
Regulation, Not Prohibition
At Upstate Elevator, we’ve always believed in smart, science-backed regulation to keep consumers safe and to foster a legitimate, thriving industry. Prohibition doesn’t work—it only drives products underground and rewards bad actors.
One of the best examples of effective regulation is happening right now in Minnesota, where the state has implemented:
Age restrictions (21+)
THC caps per serving and per package
Clear labeling rules
Licensing and testing requirements
These measures protect consumers while allowing innovative, responsible brands to flourish.
“Minnesota shows us what smart, enforceable cannabis policy looks like. The federal government should be looking to sensible models like that rather than trying to decimate an entire industry,” said Dylan Raap, CEO at Upstate Elevator.
What This Means for You
If this amendment becomes law, it could:
Ban your favorite hemp-derived beverages and gummies
Force ethical businesses to close their doors, with thousands losing their jobs
Create confusion and uncertainty across state lines
Push consumers toward unregulated or illicit products
This is not the path forward.
What We’re Fighting For
Here’s what we believe federal lawmakers should support instead:
Adult Access (21+): Cannabinoid products should be treated with the same responsibility as alcohol and adult-use cannabis.
Safety First: We support third-party testing, ingredient transparency, and product safety standards.
Reasonable THC Limits: Products should have effective, clearly labeled potencies that are safe and predictable.
Consistent Labeling: Clear, accurate labeling helps consumers make informed decisions and builds trust in the industry.
Regulatory Clarity: We need clear federal rules that distinguish responsible operators from rogue businesses.
State Cooperation: Until federal laws catch up, states should work together to develop consistent guidelines.
Join Us in Speaking Out
The hemp industry is at a crossroads—and your voice matters. Whether you're a consumer, retailer, policymaker, or advocate, we invite you to stand with us in support of safe, regulated, and responsible access to hemp-derived products. Let’s move forward, not backward.
— The Upstate Elevator Team
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