Reflections on My PCN Interview: The State of Hemp in Pennsylvania

Reflections on My PCN Interview: The State of Hemp in Pennsylvania

I had the opportunity to speak on PCN (Pennsylvania Cable Network) to discuss the evolving landscape of the hemp industry in Pennsylvania. It was an invaluable chance to highlight the challenges and opportunities we face as business owners navigating an industry caught between federal legality and state regulation.

Key Topics Discussed

During the interview, we covered several critical points that I’ve been advocating for over the past several years. These included:

1. Age Gating and Responsible Regulation

One of the biggest concerns raised by lawmakers and industry stakeholders is ensuring that hemp-derived products do not fall into the hands of minors. I reiterated my position that responsible regulation through an Age Gating Act is a logical first step, rather than outright bans or restrictive measures that would push products into unregulated markets. Age gating is already a standard practice in other regulated industries, and implementing a 21+ sales requirement for certain hemp products would align with broader public safety goals.

2. The Difference Between Hemp and Marijuana

Many people still conflate hemp with marijuana, leading to unnecessary regulatory burdens on small businesses. I explained how hemp products are derived from plants cultivated under USDA and state hemp programs, while marijuana is strictly regulated through state-licensed cultivation and production facilities. The distinction is clear, yet policymakers continue to blur the lines, threatening the future of the hemp industry.

3. Hemp’s Role in Reducing the Black Market

Legal hemp sales provide an alternative to the black market, ensuring consumers have access to tested, safe, and compliant products. In states where marijuana remains illegal, hemp-derived products fill a demand that would otherwise be met by unregulated sources. I emphasized that responsible businesses like mine are already collecting taxes and following stringent guidelines, contributing to both consumer safety and state revenue.

4. Industry Safety Standards: GMP and Labeling

Another focus of the discussion was the importance of establishing Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and clear labeling requirements for hemp products. If Pennsylvania lawmakers are serious about safety, ensuring products are produced under cGMP regulations and properly labeled should be a higher priority than excessive restrictions that only benefit large corporations.

The Bigger Picture

The interview provided a platform to push back against misinformation and highlight the economic contributions of the hemp industry. Pennsylvania has a growing consumer base for hemp products, and instead of stifling the industry, legislators should work with business owners to create fair and effective policies.

I hope that my discussion on PCN helps shape the conversation around hemp in Pennsylvania and encourages lawmakers to take a more balanced approach to regulation.

Thank you to everyone who continues to support BF Extracts Hometown Hemp Shop and the broader hemp industry. If you have thoughts or questions about these issues, feel free to reach out or stop by the shop—we're always happy to educate and engage with our community!

Thomas Bobrowicz

Owner