Tax & FinanceMissouri-Apr 10, 2026

The Hemp Industry Didn’t Get Killed By Regulators, It Killed Itself (Op-Ed)

Key Takeaway

This article, an op-ed by Max Jackson of Cannabis Wise Guys, argues that the hemp industry's current struggles are self-inflicted rather than due to external regulatory pressures. The author contends that the industry's internal actions have negatively impacted the broader, legitimate full-spectrum wellness market. This perspective is crucial for understanding the evolving landscape of cannabis and hemp businesses, as it highlights internal factors contributing to market instability. The piece suggests that the industry's own missteps are responsible for its decline, affecting all operators within the hemp and full-spectrum product space. For cannabis businesses, this implies a need for greater internal accountability and strategic planning to avoid similar pitfalls and ensure sustainable growth amidst regulatory changes, such as Missouri's recent Senate bill.

What This Means for Cannabis Businesses

Tax developments like this directly impact the bottom line for every cannabis operator. With Section 280E creating effective tax rates above 70% for many businesses, any shift in federal tax policy - whether through rescheduling, court rulings, or IRS guidance - can mean the difference between profitability and closure. Cannabis business owners should work closely with a specialized CPA to understand how these changes affect their specific situation.

Missouri Cannabis Market Overview

Missouri legalized recreational cannabis in 2022 and has seen strong early sales growth. The state has approximately 400 active cannabis licenses and 10 licensed testing laboratories. There are 48 cannabis professionals serving Missouri businesses on our directory, including CPAs, attorneys, and compliance consultants.

This analysis is based on reporting by Marijuana Moment. Read the original article. CannaBizGuide provides original commentary and analysis - this is not legal or tax advice.