What’s Going On with Hemp — And What’s Next

If you’ve been hearing about the recent national ban on hemp-derived products, you’re not alone. It’s been a whirlwind year for farmers, small businesses, and consumers alike — and we want to help clear the air on what’s happening, what it means for you, and how we’re moving forward together.

A Year of Change and Regulation

In response to growing national concerns around unregulated hemp products, the federal government enacted a national ban, prompting states to implement updated rules and oversight.

Here in Maryland, new regulations officially took effect on October 1, marking a pivotal step toward clearer standards for safety, labeling, and dosage limits. While these updates aim to create consistency and ensure consumer safety, they’ve also created confusion and disruption for local hemp farmers, processors, and retailers across the state.

Despite these challenges, we’re proud to share that many of our products remain fully compliant under the new regulations. At Fingerboard Farm, transparency, safety, and quality have always been our top priorities.

What “Compliant” Really Means

Our compliant products meet or exceed every state and federal requirement. Here’s what that looks like in practice:

• Child-proof, label-compliant packaging that aligns with Maryland’s new safety standards

• QR codes linking directly to each product’s Certificate of Analysis (COA) for full transparency on potency and purity

• Product formulations that meet non-intoxicating limits — specifically no more than 0.5 mg THC per serving and 2.5 mg THC per package to qualify as compliant for sale in non-restricted areas

• Products exceeding those thresholds are classified under Maryland Cannabis Administration (MCA) compliance and are available in licensed, restricted dispensary areas only

• You can find our compliant products at 24 medical dispensaries across Maryland, ensuring safe, regulated access for our customers

Importantly, all Fingerboard Farm products remain federally legal, in full alignment with the 2018 Farm Bill, which defines hemp as containing less than 0.3% Delta-9 THC on a dry weight basis.

Looking Ahead

We know these changes have raised questions and frustrations among our loyal customers and community — and we hear you. Our commitment hasn’t changed: to grow and produce trusted, high-quality hemp products that support wellness, naturally.

As Maryland and the nation work toward clearer, more balanced regulations, we’re calling on our community to stay informed, stay engaged, and stay hopeful. This is a moment for farmers, dispensaries, and consumers to rally together and advocate for a fair, sustainable path forward — one that protects both public safety and local small businesses.

We’ll continue to share updates and resources as this evolves. In the meantime, thank you for standing with us. Together, we can find solutions that ensure access, safety, and choice for everyone who believes in the power of the plant.