🌿 Standing Up for Hemp: iHemp Michigan at the CRA Public Hearing

Andy Simons, Eric Dean, Blain Becktold, Michael Thue, Senator Lauwers, Dennis Dean, Mara McCalmon, Kyle McCalmon, Marcel Borja

📄 What We Said

iHemp Michigan submitted a comprehensive comment letter outlining both our support and concerns about the proposed rule changes.

🔍 Key Points Included:

Clarify Definitions: Rules must clearly distinguish between marijuana and industrial hemp. Confusion here could lead to unintended enforcement issues and stifle the hemp sector’s growth.
Protect Product Access: Many common hemp products — from tinctures to animal feed — risk being banned under proposed THC limits. We urged the CRA to assess real-world usage and consider exemptions or updated guidelines.
Respect Testing Realities: The hemp industry relies on DEA-approved labs. We advocated to keep this option open and ensure product sampling is scientifically valid and scalable.
Ensure Fair Sales Channels: Hemp products shouldn’t be limited to marijuana sales locations. We called for a framework that supports hemp-specific retailers and direct-to-consumer access.

You can read our full comments here:
📄 [Download iHemp Michigan’s Full CRA Comments (PDF)]

💬 Why It Matters

This hearing wasn’t just about policy — it was about the future of hemp in Michigan.

Industrial hemp holds tremendous potential: from sustainable agriculture and nutrition to advanced materials and wellness products. But poorly designed rules could limit innovation, burden small businesses, and reduce consumer access.

By showing up, speaking up, and submitting thoughtful feedback, we’re fighting to keep Michigan’s hemp industry open, fair, and thriving.