Hey friends,

We need your attention on something big happening in Oregon that will deeply impact our local hemp industry—especially the small farms and producers that have worked so hard to build this community.

The Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission (OLCC) has proposed a new set of rules for Hemp Product Registration(OARs 845-026-6000 through 845-026-6120). And while some oversight is understandable, these proposed regulations go too far—particularly for small-scale operations.

Here’s what you need to know:

What’s the Problem?

• Excessive Fees: The proposed fees to register new hemp products are outrageous and unsustainable for small farms and processors. We’re talking about amounts that could easily push small players out of the game.
• Overregulation: The level of operational oversight in the proposed rules is highly restrictive. It micromanages daily business practices, which slows down production and innovation.
• Delays That Hurt: The time required to register products under these new rules will be a deal-breaker for many. Smaller operations, which often don’t have large cash reserves, could be forced to pause or shut down while waiting—potentially for months.

This is not just red tape—it’s a major threat to the survival of Oregon’s small hemp businesses.

Why It Matters:

Oregon’s hemp industry has thrived because of the passion, resilience, and innovation of small farmers and entrepreneurs. These folks have prioritized sustainability, quality, and local economic growth. They shouldn’t be punished with excessive fees and delays just to keep operating.

We need regulations that protect consumers—yes—but not at the cost of destroying the very community that made Oregon a leader in hemp.

What You Can Do: Submit a Public Comment

This is your chance to speak up and influence policy before it’s finalized. Here’s how:

1. Visit the OLCC’s website or public comment portal. https://www.oregon.gov/olcc/Pages/public-comment-rulemaking-hemp-product-registration.aspx#formMessage
2. Write a respectful but clear comment opposing the proposed rules.
3. Use your voice to support small farms and fair regulations.

You can borrow language from the sample below if you need a starting point:

“The proposed fees for registering new products are outrageous and not sustainable for small farms. The amount of operational oversight proposed in these new bills is extremely restrictive of the day-to-day functionality of these businesses. The time needed to register new products will force many smaller operations out of business if they don’t have the funding to support themselves through the waiting period. Keep fees low and let the growers grow.”

Deadline Reminder:

Make sure you submit your comment before the public comment period ends! 5/30 @ 12 PM!

Let’s protect the future of Oregon hemp. Share this with your network, talk to your fellow growers and customers, and let’s make sure our voices are heard.

Keep fees low, and let the growers grow.

— Ash, The Strain Fax