Klobuchar and Local Duluth Business Owners Advocate to Change Federal Hemp Ban

DULUTH, MN - U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar was joined by Ryan Kopperud, Vice President of Growth for Birdie at Wild State Cider, and Adam Ruhland, CEO of Wild State Cider, to advocate to change the recently enacted federal ban on hemp. Klobuchar is working across the aisle to change it.

"A one-size fits all approach to hemp regulation doesn't work for states like Minnesota that already have strong safety standards in place," said Klobuchar. "We can protect our kids and support our small businesses - Minnesota's model proves that's possible. Under current state rules, small businesses like Wild State Cider are licensed, meet labeling and packaging standards, and ensure their products are available only to adults. I want our state's small businesses and farmers to know: I've got your back."

"What's at stake here is not just one business. Not just one taproom. It's manufacturers, distributors, retailers, farmers, labs-the entire system behind these hemp products people already trust. Responsible, compliant, transparent businesses, and the jobs, revenue, and tax base that come with them. This is what happens when policy meets reality. And that reality-for us and for thousands of Minnesota businesses-is frankly terrifying," said Ryan Kopperud, Vice President of Growth for Birdie at Wild State Cider.

Wild State Cider is a well-known cidery based in Duluth that was founded in 2019. The cidery specializes in producing ciders made with natural ingredients. In 2024, Wild State Cider launched a successful line of THC-infused products called "Birdie." However, a recent bill signed into law includes provisions that could severely impact Minnesota's hemp industry by banning many products currently manufactured in the state. Senator Klobuchar voted against the bill and voted for an amendment by Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) to remove the provision impacting Minnesota's hemp businesses.

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