On May 6, 2025, iHemp Michigan stood shoulder to shoulder with farmers, processors, and advocates at the Michigan Cannabis Regulatory Agency’s (CRA) public hearing in Lansing. As proposed rules begin to shape the future of both marijuana and hemp in our state, this was a pivotal moment to ensure industrial hemp is heard — and protected.
🏛️ What Is the CRA?
The Cannabis Regulatory Agency (CRA), formerly known as the Marijuana Regulatory Agency, is Michigan’s authority overseeing cannabis businesses — including, more recently, hemp processors and products. While the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) still handles hemp cultivation, the CRA is now responsible for developing rules around hemp-derived products, their testing, labeling, and retail sales.
This shift has major implications for our industry — and that’s why we showed up.
🌱 Who Was There?
iHemp Michigan was proud to be strongly represented. Our advocacy team included:
- Cassin Coleman
- Blain Becktold
- Kyle McCalmon
- Dennis Dean
- Eric Dean
- Andy Simons
- Michael Thue
- Mara McCalmon
- Marcel Borja
We were also honored to meet with Senator Dan Lauwers, the author of Michigan’s original hemp legislation, and Zvonko Blazevski, Legislative Aide for Rep. McKinney, to discuss the future of hemp regulations and our push to bring the Industrial Hemp Program back under USDA oversight.
Andy Simons, Eric Dean, Blain Becktold, Michael Thue, Senator Lauwers, Dennis Dean, Mara McCalmon, Kyle McCalmon, Marcel Borja
đź“„ What We Said
iHemp Michigan submitted a comprehensive comment letter outlining both our support and concerns about the proposed rule changes.
🔍 Key Points Included:
- Clarify Definitions: Rules must clearly distinguish between marijuana and industrial hemp. Confusion here could lead to unintended enforcement issues and stifle the hemp sector’s growth.
- Protect Product Access: Many common hemp products — from tinctures to animal feed — risk being banned under proposed THC limits. We urged the CRA to assess real-world usage and consider exemptions or updated guidelines.
- Respect Testing Realities: The hemp industry relies on DEA-approved labs. We advocated to keep this option open and ensure product sampling is scientifically valid and scalable.
- Ensure Fair Sales Channels: Hemp products shouldn’t be limited to marijuana sales locations. We called for a framework that supports hemp-specific retailers and direct-to-consumer access.
You can read our full comments here:
📄 [Download iHemp Michigan’s Full CRA Comments (PDF)]
đź’¬ Why It Matters
This hearing wasn’t just about policy — it was about the future of hemp in Michigan.
Industrial hemp holds tremendous potential: from sustainable agriculture and nutrition to advanced materials and wellness products. But poorly designed rules could limit innovation, burden small businesses, and reduce consumer access.
By showing up, speaking up, and submitting thoughtful feedback, we’re fighting to keep Michigan’s hemp industry open, fair, and thriving.
Eric Dean advocating for hemp.
Dennis Dean advocating for hemp.
Cassin Coleman advocating for hemp.
đź“Ł Join the Movement
Our collective voice makes the biggest impact.
✅ Here’s how you can help:
- Join iHemp Michigan – Become a member and support our mission.
- Contact your legislators – Let them know you support fair hemp regulation.
- Share this blog – Help spread the word about what’s at stake.
- Stay informed – Follow us for updates on next steps.
🔗 Join iHemp Michigan Today »
Together, we’re building a smarter, stronger, hemp-powered Michigan. 💚
