A little while ago, I sent out an email asking for your help to protect the U.S. hemp industry. In true Turtle Club fashion, one of our members, Jim, wrote back with a fantastic and honest question:

“Interesting? Although I know of hemp, I don’t know that much about why it is important vs alternative products. I also don’t understand why the congress people you mentioned want to kill it. Could you enlighten me.”

Thank you for asking, Jim. It’s a critical question, and if you’re wondering, I’m sure others are too. When we ask our community to stick its neck out, you deserve to know exactly why.

So, let’s break it down.

Why is Hemp Important Compared to Alternatives?

For centuries, hemp was one of the most versatile and valuable crops on the planet. The U.S. Constitution was drafted on hemp paper! Then, due to its association with its intoxicating cousin, it was banned for decades. Now that it’s back, we’re rediscovering what makes it so special.

Here’s the simple version:

• It’s a Natural Wellness Solution for Main Street, Not Just Big Pharma. The most popular hemp products, like CBD oils and salves (including the ones I share at the hockey rink), work with our body’s own Endocannabinoid System. Many people find that they offer relief for aches, stress, and sleep issues without the side effects of synthetic drugs. It’s a natural, plant-based alternative that empowers people to manage their own wellness.

  I used CBD right after colon surgery and never consumed a single Opioid, despite being told to pick up a bottle on the way out for $.62 and a signature saying I won’t sell any of them. Highly addictive opioids for 62 cents and Cannabis is illegal- grrrh.

• It’s an Economic Engine for American Farmers and Small Businesses. Unlike many industries dominated by a few giant corporations, the hemp industry is fueled by thousands of small farmers and entrepreneurs. When you buy a hemp product, you’re often supporting a family farm in Kentucky, a small business in Colorado, or an innovator right here in our community. It’s a true grassroots industry.
• It’s Environmentally Sustainable. Hemp is a miracle crop. It grows fast, requires little water, and captures huge amounts of carbon from the atmosphere. Even more, it has the incredible ability to clean our environment. Scientists and farmers are now using hemp to remediate soil and water contaminated with “forever chemicals” like PFAS. It can also be used to make biodegradable plastics, textiles, nutritious food, and even strong, carbon-negative building materials. In fact, people right here in Michigan are learning how to construct buildings with “hempcrete” at hands-on workshops. It’s a powerful tool for building a cleaner, more sustainable future.

  In short, hemp isn’t just one thing. It’s a source of natural wellness, a lifeline for small American businesses, and a win for the environment.

So, Why Do Some Politicians Want to Kill It?

This is the frustrating part, Jim. It boils down to three main reasons:

• Misinformation and Stigma: The biggest hurdle is the persistent, incorrect belief that “hemp” is the same as “marijuana.” By law, hemp cannot contain more than 0.3% THC—the compound that gets you high. You could smoke a bale of hemp and not feel a thing. But some politicians, like Rep. Andy Harris, ignore this distinction and lump everything together under the banner of a dangerous drug.
• Protecting Corporate Interests: Big pharmaceutical companies and state-licensed marijuana corporations see hemp-derived CBD as a major competitor. Hemp is affordable, accessible, and available over-the-counter nationwide. These powerful industries have lobbyists who pressure politicians to eliminate their competition through bans and over-regulation.
• A Flawed “Fix” for a Real Problem: Recently, some bad actors have exploited a loophole to sell intoxicating, psychoactive products and market them as “hemp.” This is a problem that needs to be fixed with smart, targeted regulation. However, instead of using a scalpel to remove the bad actors, the proposed ban from Sen. McConnell and Rep. Harris is a sledgehammer that would destroy the entire legitimate, non-intoxicating hemp industry along with them. It punishes responsible small businesses and their customers for the actions of a few shady companies.

It’s Time to Stick Our Necks Out

This isn’t just a political issue; it’s about protecting our access to natural products, supporting American small businesses, and standing up to misinformation. The fight is happening right now, and our window to act is closing fast.

Here is how you can help, and it only takes 30 seconds.

STEP 1: Email Your Members of Congress Use the link below to send a pre-written (but customizable) email to your representatives, urging them to VOTE NO on any hemp-killing language. It’s fast, easy, and incredibly impactful. **Click Here to Email Your Representatives**

STEP 2: Spread the Word! Share the links below with friends, family, and on social media. The more people who know, the louder our collective voice becomes.

• Social Media Package: https://hempsupporter.com/social-media-package/
• Sticker/Postcard Assets: https://hempsupporter.com/supporter-hub/

For an even deeper dive, you can read this primer on the situation: https://hempsupporter.com/primer-on-the-farm-bill/

Thank you for taking the time to understand this issue. Your support means the world.

All the best,

YBYSAIA

Dave Crabill
Master Imperial Turtle