Timeline of USDA Hemp Production Program
| 2018 | Oct. 31, 2019 | Jan. 19, 2021 | Mar. 22, 2021 | TODAY |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Agricultural Improvement Act | Interim Final Rule | Final Rule Published | Final Rule Effective | 7 CFR Part 990 (Codified) |
The Agricultural Improvement Act
The Agricultural Improvement Act of 2018 (Pub. L. 115-334), also known as the 2018 Farm Bill (pdf), is a comprehensive piece of legislation that governs various aspects of agriculture and food policy in the United States. The 2018 Farm Bill directed USDA to establish a national regulatory framework for hemp production in the United States.
7 CFR Part 990
7 CFR Part 990 represents the codified text of the Hemp Final Rule. To view the most recent codified USDA hemp regulations please visit:
https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-7/subtitle-B/chapter-IX/part-990
The Final Rule
USDA published a hemp final rule on January 19, 2021, which provides the regulations for the production of hemp in the United States and became effective on March 22, 2021.
The Interim Final Rule
The interim final rule was published October 31, 2019, and represented the first regulations establishing the U.S. Domestic Hemp Production Program. The interim final rule was replaced by the hemp final rule.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and State Hemp Product Regulations
The USDA only has regulatory authority over hemp production. Once the hemp tests compliant under 7 CFR Part 990, the hemp may leave the farm and enter commerce. When hemp is manufactured for human or animal consumption, the FDA and local governments regulate those products. Please visit the FDA’s Cannabis and Cannabis-Derived Compounds website to learn more.
Additionally, States and Tribal governments may have additional requirements surrounding the manufacture and retail of hemp-based products. Contact the State or Tribal Government to learn more about specific hemp product regulations.