The ongoing negotiations to end the government shutdown are facing significant challenges due to proposed legislation that includes a ban on certain hemp-derived THC products. Senator Rand Paul has emerged as a notable opponent of the spending bill, insisting on revisions related to hemp, which he claims could slow down the process of reopening the government. Experts warn that this deal could jeopardize the burgeoning THC edible industry in states like Minnesota and Kentucky, leaving many hemp businesses in uncertainty. Meanwhile, a coalition of attorneys general and major corporations are advocating for strict regulations on intoxicating hemp products, revealing a growing concern about their safety and legality. The debate has fueled speculation that crucial funding provisions could be stymied not only by partisan disagreements but also by the contentious issue of hemp regulation.