By Markus Schmidt, Virginia MercurySeven Virginia hemp businesses are asking a federal judge to block new restrictions on consumable hemp products, arguing the changes will wipe out much of their inventory, trigger layoffs and force some companies to close when they take effect on August 15. Businesses say transition leaves little timeVirginia businesses Nova Hemp & Agriculture, Redfern Hemp Co., Pure Elkton Manufacturing, Cypress Hemp II, Wellness Warriors and Simply Hemp are also part of the suit. The Virginia Cannabis Control Authority will oversee the market and regulate hemp products under the new system. “No matter when hemp law changes occur, educating the public on these changes and their impact on consumers remains vital,” Higgs Wise said. The Virginia businesses are asking the court to preserve the 25-to-1 exception while the case proceeds.