Understanding the 2018 Farm Bill and Hemp Legality

Ask anyone in the hemp industry what changed everything, and they'll likely point to one piece of legislation: the 2018 Farm Bill.

What the Farm Bill Actually Did

The Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, commonly called the Farm Bill, removed hemp from the federal list of controlled substances. It defined hemp as cannabis containing no more than 0.3% Delta-9 THC by dry weight, distinguishing it legally from marijuana. This single definition opened the door for hemp-derived products, including THCA flower and concentrates, to be sold across state lines.

Why the 0.3% Threshold Matters

That 0.3% number refers specifically to Delta-9 THC, not total cannabinoid content. This is part of why THCA products exist in the marketplace the way they do — THCA itself is a different compound from Delta-9 THC until heat is applied. Compliant hemp flower can test under the legal threshold before decarboxylation while still converting to an active THC experience when smoked or vaped.

State Laws Still Vary

While the Farm Bill set a federal framework, individual states have the authority to regulate hemp products further, and some have passed additional restrictions on THCA or hemp-derived cannabinoids. Regulations continue to evolve, so it's always smart to check your local and state laws before purchasing or traveling with hemp products.

Shopping Compliant Hemp

We test and source our products with these regulations in mind. Take a look at our BHO concentrate collection to see the range of compliant hemp-derived products available.

This article is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult your state's current regulations.