Don't Lose Access To CBD, Call Now.

“One thing we have to realize from now on is that it doesn't matter if this is a dream or not. Survival depends on what we do, not what we think.” 
― Rebecca McKinsey, Anterria​

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Action

In a previous post I was ringing the bell; from Maine to New York City, CBD hemp oil and other CBD consumables are being embargoed, and these products are being sent back to their maker. That's not good for anyone.

Since then, similar actions were taken in Ohio and other jurisdictions. Now, North Carolina has issued warning letters to CBD manufactures in that state, again citing FDA's statement on the issue. At least NC sent a warning, but the blockade is coming folks.
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​Let's be clear, these actions against hemp are being taken by state and local agencies, not the FDA. However, those states are taking the FDA's position; that CBD should not be used as a supplement because of a federal patent. It is not because CBD is found to be unsafe.

In Vermont, we're fortunate that all hemp oversight is with the Vermont Agency of Agriculture (VAAFM). Vermont's Administration and its Ag Agency have stated repeatedly there's "no way" the punitive actions we saw in Maine, and elsewhere will happen here. That's an encouraging and protective stance right now towards Vermont's CBD growers and processors.
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However, at the end of the day, it is the FDA and not Vermont Ag that is poised to put the brakes on our budding hemp industry.

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Our Congressional delegation's DC offices are not hearing enough from those concerned about the FDA's stance on CBD. That's where you come in, good people everywhere. And to the businesses signing petitions to Congress and the FDA; thank you for getting on that.

However this situation calls for more, before FDA decides to shut the door on hemp extracts of CBD. We have to speak up now; kindly, clearly, and in large numbers.

"I have a message for Bernie"

Everyone who has a stake in this, just a few short minutes to email or call your representatives today, will make a huge difference.
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Sen. Leahy and Sanders especially want to hear from us. And as Vermont's own presidential candidate, Bernie needs to take a stand for hemp.
 
​It's important to call direct to the DC office. Here are the phone numbers and email links to Vermont's representatives:

• Sen. Pat Leahy (202) 224-4242, or use this link to send an email to Sen. Leahy
• Sen. Bernie Sanders (202) 224-5141, or use this link to send an email to Bernie
• Rep. Peter Welch (202) 225-4115, or use this link to send an email to Rep. Welch

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Talking Points

To make it really easy, here are the key point to draw from when you speak with the staffer that answers the phone. Or hey, just copy and paste this prepared text into an email! Or provide your own. However you do it, the key issue is this: ​

We must strongly urge our members of Congress to move the FDA to issue regulations that authorize the use of CBD in food, beverages, and dietary supplements.

• We must urge the FDA to allow dual classification of CBD as both a drug (which the FDA approved for Epidiolex in 2018) and as a Generally Regarded As Safe (GRAS) dietary supplement. 

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• ​CBD is not listed under any UN drug control treaties, and the World Health Organization has recommended that CBD remain unscheduled.

Vermont’s hemp and CBD industry has grown rapidly in the last few years. Dozens of new and expanding companies, and hundreds of farms are involved.

The majority of Vermont’s 400+ registered hemp farms and business are producing CBD, a compound for which the World Health Organization found no risk of toxicity or dependence. 
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• Vermont's struggling dairies and other farmers are taking a strong interest in growing hemp for CBD. Vermont’s rural economy depends on these farms and businesses succeeding.

 

• Unless the FDA classifies CBD as a dietary supplement (as it has for other herbs, etc), the businesses providing these hemp extracts, which 1000s of Vermonters use daily, will be at a high risk of shutting down.

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• Vermont hemp growers and processors want FDA to regulate these products to keep consumers safe. They want clear industry standards and rigorous safety testing for CBD to be used in food, beverages, and dietary supplements. ​​​

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Remember to take your CBD

As seen on Etsy - click image

This FDA business can be stressful, for sure. Seems like we barely had time to celebrate the Farm Bill passage. ​​Just glad I have my Vermont made, high-quality hemp products to keep me healthy, relaxed, and energized. 

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Ok, here are those #s and email addresses again: 

• Sen. Pat Leahy (202) 224-4242, or use this link to send an email
• Sen. Bernie Sanders (202) 224-5141, or use this link to send an email
• Rep. Peter Welch (202) 225-4115, or use this link to send an email 

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As always, your comments and questions are most welcome! Please chime in below. Made the calls, or took other action? Leave a comment.

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