WATERFORD, Va. (October 30, 2026) – ReThink-Rx, a Virginia telehealth practice, today announced an updated patient guide to the state’s new hemp THC limit, written by founder Dr. Nicholas Marsh. The update covers the federal hemp change now set for December 11, 2026, alongside the state’s cap that took effect August 15.

The 2026 Virginia law removes the 25-to-1 CBD-to-THC exception and puts products above 2 milligrams of total THC into the state’s definition of marijuana. Affected products include hemp-derived THC gummies, full-spectrum CBD oils and hemp beverages.

“The hemp rules changed, but Virginia’s medical program didn’t,” said Dr. Marsh. “Patients who relied on these products now have a regulated option with testing and clear labeling. The right first step is a conversation with a qualified clinician about what fits their needs.”

Key facts for patients

Medical dispensaries are separate. The 2 mg limit doesn’t apply to products sold through Virginia’s authorized medical cannabis dispensaries. Patients with medical certifications keep access to licensed medical dispensaries.
Check the total THC. The limit applies to the entire package, so a “hemp” or “CBD” label doesn’t tell you whether a product meets it.
The lawsuit didn’t stop it. Seven Virginia hemp businesses sued, and a federal judge in Roanoke declined to block the limit before it took effect. Court activity may continue.
Federal changes are next. The new federal standard caps finished hemp products at 0.4 milligrams of total THC per container. It now starts December 11, 2026, while the ban on synthetic cannabinoids still begins November 12.
Adult-use stores aren’t open yet. Licensed adult-use retailers are expected to open in July 2027.

Dr. Marsh encourages patients to consult a qualified clinician before changing any cannabis product or dose. This release is for general information and isn’t medical or legal advice.

The full guide is available at rethink-rx.com/virginias-new-hemp-thc-limit-what-patients-need-to-know/

About ReThink-Rx
ReThink-Rx is a Virginia telehealth practice that provides medical cannabis evaluations and certifications. It was founded in 2021 by Dr. Nicholas Marsh, who has more than 37 years of healthcare experience. The practice also runs ReThink-Rx Academy, a free library of educational articles on Virginia medical cannabis.

Media contact
ReThink-Rx
Phone: 571-479-8238
P.O. Box 344, Waterford, VA 20197