Federal THC bans create uncertainty for hemp businesses in Raleigh area

Hemp businesses in North Carolina, including those in the Raleigh area, are facing uncertainty due to upcoming federal bans on hemp-derived THC products, WTVD reported.

The first ban, effective this week, targets synthetic THC products, which make up a small part of the market. A broader ban starting in December will limit THC content to 0.4 mg, affecting many popular products such as THC beverages, gummies, and edibles.

Business owners like Davit Melikian of Heal Tree Hemp in Durham expressed concern about the impact of these restrictions on their product offerings and ability to plan long-term. Melikian noted the popularity of THC beverages but said the new rules make it difficult to extend leases or make large purchases.

Reilly Dunn of Groovewagon, a Raleigh-based company selling THC drinks, highlighted that the December ban could restrict where their products are sold, potentially removing them from grocery stores, bottle shops, and restaurants where they are currently available.

The federal changes create significant challenges for hemp businesses in the Raleigh area and across North Carolina as they navigate the evolving regulatory landscape.