Pending federal hemp ban already hurting Florida businesses

Florida businesses like Herban Flow in St. Petersburg are feeling the pinch from a pending federal hemp ban even before it officially takes effect. The retailer recently hosted its High and Dry Festival, showcasing a variety of THC-infused and hemp-based products, but owner Michael Smith reports that 80% of his sales come from these hemp-derived items. With the looming ban, Smith and other hemp-reliant businesses are worried about a potential revenue drop. This situation highlights the broader implications for the hemp industry and the local economies that depend on it, as well as the ongoing regulatory challenges in the cannabis sector.