USDA Extends Hemp Testing Flexibility, Postpones DEA Lab Certification Rule
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has once again postponed the enforcement of a requirement for hemp testing to be conducted by Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)-registered laboratories, granting the industry another year of flexibility. Under this extension, hemp produced through the USDA’s Domestic Hemp Production Program can continue to be tested at non-DEA-certified labs until December 31, 2025.
The decision marks the third time the USDA has pushed back this requirement. Initially set to take effect by Jan. 1, 2023, the mandate was previously delayed, citing similar concerns over testing capacity.
Industry Feedback and Certification Hurdles
The USDA attributed the delay to ongoing feedback from state and tribal governments, as well as third-party cannabis testing facilities, highlighting significant delays in the DEA’s laboratory registration process. “Because of these setbacks in the completion of the DEA process, USDA is concerned there will be …