Hemp markets continue to expand, though asymmetrically. Hemp flower and derivatives lead the way with vast demand for intoxicating flower sold under the auspices of a “THC-A” standard. More consumers are discovering each day that they’re able to purchase dispensary-quality cannabis in local stores or via the internet.

Despite pushback from states, these markets appear virtually unstoppable. More communities have identified the public health threat from unregulated and untested cannabinoids, as well as underage access to them.

Stores move extensive inventories of THC-A flower or extract in short order, and wholesalers have struggled to keep up. Federal legislation, either vis-à-vis the Farm Bill, or standalone, could have a significant impact on some aspects of this market. Regardless of any criminalization of intoxicating hemp-derived cannabinoids on the horizon, widespread…