North Carolina Hemp Farmers Face Uncertain Future Amid Potential Federal THC Law Changes

Proposed federal legislation could severely restrict THC levels in hemp products, potentially devastating the state's booming hemp industry.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Changes to federal hemp laws could make THC-infused gummies, oils, and even cookies on some North Carolina farmers' shelves illegal later this year. Jeremiah Leggett, a hemp farmer since 2019, is concerned that the proposed federal legislation limiting THC levels in hemp products to 0.4 milligrams per container would "essentially get rid of all the products" and force many CBD and hemp shops to close. This sets up a clash between federal and state laws, raising questions about enforcement.

Why it matters

North Carolina has become a major player in the multi-billion-dollar hemp industry in recent years. The potential federal crackdown on higher-THC hemp products could devastate the state's hemp farmers and businesses, many of whom have built their livelihoods around these products.

The details

The bill ending the government shutdown last fall included a provision limiting the amount of THC allowed in hemp products. Current federal law allows hemp products to have 0.3% THC on a dry-weight basis, but the proposed changes would restrict that to 0.4 milligrams of all THC per container. Supporters say this will make it harder for shoppers to buy highly potent products, but growers like Leggett argue it would eliminate most of their product offerings.

  • The proposed federal hemp THC limit changes are expected to go into effect in November 2026.
  • North Carolina hemp farmers are preparing for the upcoming 2026 growing season with unprecedented uncertainty.

The players

Jeremiah Leggett

A hemp farmer in North Carolina who started his farm in 2019 and is concerned the proposed federal THC limits could force him to shut down his business.

Phil Dixon

An Associate Professor of Public Law and Government at UNC-Chapel Hill who believes federal officials could leave states alone as long as they're operating under a state plan, but notes there are no guarantees.

Jeff Jackson

The North Carolina Attorney General who was among 38 other state attorneys general who signed a letter to Congress asking lawmakers to clarify current hemp laws, saying bad actors have exploited it because of a perceived loophole.

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What they’re saying

“It essentially gets rid of all the products. That doesn't allow us to create anymore product. So, 99% of what you see on the hemp shelves will be taken away.”

— Jeremiah Leggett, Hemp Farmer (wral.com)

“Nationwide, at least, it's a multi-billion-dollar industry, and I think North Carolina is a big chunk of that because we've been producing a lot of hemp.”

— Phil Dixon, Associate Professor of Public Law and Government, UNC-Chapel Hill (wral.com)

What’s next

Federal and state lawmakers are expected to continue debating the proposed changes to hemp THC limits in the coming months, with North Carolina hemp farmers closely watching the outcome.

The takeaway

The potential federal crackdown on higher-THC hemp products could devastate North Carolina's booming hemp industry, which has provided economic opportunities for many farmers and businesses in the state. This clash between federal and state laws highlights the need for clearer regulations to support the growth of the hemp industry while also addressing concerns over potent products.