By: Quinn Burnside

Moon Flower Hemp is facing new legislative challenges that will have impacts on how they can continue their business moving forward.

This small‑town business in Buckhannon is known for its locally made hemp products. The owners, Macie and Riley Queen, have been working through these new regulations as these rules continue to shift. For a business that has made an impact on Upshur County, these changes are causing concern from the community.

The laws we are seeing being enforced in November 2026 will affect what they can sell, how they can market them, and the way they can source ingredients. These restrictions will force the owners to rethink parts of their business while they attempt to stay true to what their customers need.

They share that their motivation comes from their commitment to West Virginia. As they put it, “We are passionate about our state, we have a true love for it and for the people here.” They added that even though it might be easier to run their business somewhere else, leaving would only hold West Virginia back. “If everyone chose to leave and start their businesses elsewhere, how could West Virginia ever reach its full potential?”

Moon Flower Hemp has constantly been a safe place for customers to ask questions and become more educated on products. The owners have been consistently transparent about the challenges they are facing and have even been posting on social media about it. Even in these times of uncertainty, they have continued to show up for their customers.

Macie and Riley Queen explained that “our community shows up for us every day, and knowing people rely on our products reminds us why we keep going.” The biggest concern for this business is how quickly the regulations will change, specifically when they affect everyday operations. The impact these regulations have on the community is significant. Many people around Buckhannon rely on these products, as they are the only ones they feel comfortable using, and as new regulations take effect, this may result in customers no longer having access to the products they depend on.

“In preparation for possible changes, we have been researching and developing products that are more aligned with possible milligram ‘caps’ (5mg–10mg) as well as looking into modifying our existing products to better suit those upcoming regulations.”

“Riley and I have spent a lot of time at West Virginia’s State Capitol during this past legislative session, playing defense and sharing our story to as many representatives that would listen. We urged lawmakers to research and grasp the magnitude of the potential federal ban, as well as the role that hemp plays in our state.”

Looking ahead, Macie and Riley will continue fighting to keep their business running, as they explore ways to move forward. Whether that is adjusting products or stronger advocacy toward legislation, the community hopes they can continue business in West Virginia. They plan to adapt without losing Moon Flower’s identity.

“We are shooting for the moon in all ways that we can! Riley and I are eager to expand our distribution networks across the country, perfect our product line, and stay fluid with the ever-changing market. Our biggest future plan coming into fruition currently is the expansion of our Moon Brew line! We’ve signed contracts with alcohol distribution companies like Anheuser-Busch and Molson Coors, which are helping us to offer our infused beverages in so many new places.”

They explained what they want lawmakers and the public to understand, that “Keeping hemp legal and regulated ensures consumers have access to safe, tested, clearly labeled products. We operate fully seed‑to‑sale, so we know exactly what goes into everything we make. Hemp also supports local agriculture and creates jobs in rural communities. People are already seeking these products, regulation simply ensures they get them safely.”

Although this will continue to change, Moon Flower Hemp’s story is just an example for all small businesses in West Virginia. The owners’ ability to adapt and communicate as they keep moving forward showcases the support they have from the community. As legislation continues to shift, Moon Flower Hemp is determined to stay committed to their community.

Photo by: Upshur County Visitors Bureau