Why it matters: Big Sky Scientific’s entry into federal lobbying comes as the hemp industry faces existential threats from proposed Farm Bill changes. The company, which fought a high-profile legal battle over hemp transportation in 2019, is now mobilizing against legislation that could effectively ban many hemp-derived products.
By the numbers: Big Sky Scientific has spent modestly on lobbying since starting in August 2025, working exclusively with boutique firm EQVstrategic LLC. Christopher R. Wall leads the lobbying effort, bringing 15 years of agricultural policy experience. Wall previously represented the National Pork Producers Council for 14 years and multiple animal health companies.
Broader context: The 2024 Farm Bill contains amendments that would redefine hemp to ban “non-naturally occurring” cannabinoids like delta-8 THC. Separately, House appropriations legislation would change the THC threshold from 0.3% delta-9 to 0.3% total THC. The DEA has also clarified that THCA products don’t meet hemp’s legal definition.
The agenda: Big Sky Scientific is lobbying on agriculture issues, though specific legislation isn’t detailed in their disclosures. Their focus likely centers on preserving the 2018 Farm Bill’s hemp definition. The company has direct stakes in interstate commerce protections after Idaho seized 7,000 pounds of their hemp in 2019.
Between the lines: Big Sky Scientific’s timing suggests defensive lobbying against regulatory threats. The proposed Farm Bill changes could eliminate their business model entirely. With USDA delaying hemp rule enforcement until December 2025, there’s still time to influence implementation. State-level bans in multiple states add urgency to federal action.
The bottom line: A hemp company with a history of regulatory battles is hiring Washington help as Congress considers major industry restrictions. Their modest lobbying investment reflects the high stakes of preserving current hemp regulations.
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