Why it Matters

A Portland-based cannabis and hemp genetics company has terminated its lobbying relationship, according to recent federal disclosures. Phylos Bioscience, which specializes in cannabis and hemp breeding and seed development, ended its contract with the lobbying firm Olsson Frank Weeda Terman Matz PC on April 30, 2026. The LDA termination was filed on June 17, 2026, marking the end of the company's federal advocacy efforts through that firm.

The Big Picture

Phylos Bioscience reported zero dollars in lobbying expenditures for the second quarter of 2026, the period during which the termination occurred. The company, founded in 2014 and headquartered in Portland, Oregon, is a private, venture-backed firm that has raised significant capital. According to CB Insights, the company has raised $44.46 million to date, with a Series B funding round closing in late 2025. The company operates in the cannabis and hemp crop science and agricultural biotechnology sector, selling primarily to commercial cannabis and hemp growers.

The firm employed three lobbyists through Olsson Frank Weeda Terman Matz PC: Eric Steiner, a Senior Policy Adviser with prior experience on the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry Committee; Phil Karsting, a Senior Policy Adviser; and Ben Dash, a Policy Adviser. All three maintain active status as lobbyists.

The timing of the LDA termination coincides with significant changes to federal hemp policy. Congress narrowed the federal definition of hemp, effectively banning most intoxicating hemp products. The new federal hemp definition takes effect November 12, 2026, just months after Phylos Bioscience ended its lobbying contract.

This regulatory shift carries direct implications for companies operating in the hemp and cannabis genetics space. Phylos Bioscience's focus on cannabis and hemp F1 hybrid seed development and natural THC products places the company squarely in the sector affected by the redefined hemp standards.

The company is backed by notable investors in the cannabis space, including Merida Capital Partners, Accomplice, Entourage Effect Capital, and Organigram Holdings, a Canadian licensed cannabis producer.

The Bottom Line

Phylos Bioscience's decision to terminate its lobbying relationship with Olsson Frank Weeda Terman Matz PC comes as the cannabis and hemp industry faces significant federal regulatory changes. Without a replacement lobbying firm identified in current disclosures, it remains unclear whether the company will resume federal advocacy efforts through another firm or pursue a different approach to engaging with Congress and federal regulators during this period of regulatory transition.

Access the Legis1 platform for comprehensive political news, data, and insights.

Spot something wrong? Report an issue with this article