A newly enacted federal spending bill has created significant turmoil within the hemp industry, as it bans most products containing THC, including popular items like gummies, drinks, and vapes. Industry advocates argue that the legislation could result in devastating consequences, stifling state programs and businesses that have rapidly grown around hemp-derived products. Producers and retailers across states like Colorado, Minnesota, and North Carolina are expressing alarm and preparing to fight these restrictions, which critics claim could lead to the extinction of a $28 billion industry. This unexpected turn of events follows a contentious debate in Congress, where lawmakers integrated the THC ban into a deal to end the government shutdown. Despite some states opposing the ban, federal authorities have indicated their intent to tighten regulations on hemp products, leaving many businesses uncertain about their futures. As the industry braces for impact, stakeholders are reevaluating their strategies and potential legal battles ahead.