Legislation Looks To Legalize Hemp Farming Across The United States

What’s the story?

For years, farmers across the country have sought the right to farm hemp, but federal law classified it as a controlled substance because of it being a low-THC cousin to marijuana. Lawmakers are looking to change that, opening up all states to the development of industrial hemp as an agricultural commodity.

Some states, like Colorado, have already encouraged the development of industrial hemp as a cash crop within their borders. Hemp can be used for food, car parts, bio-fuels, animal feed, paper, building materials, and textiles. It grows quickly -- harvest can occur four months after seeding. It is high yield and can be grown without pesticides.

Hemp was farmed extensively across the United States until 1937 via the Marihuana Tax Act.

The Hemp Farming Act of 2018 was announced Monday by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and Republican Kentucky Agriculture Commissioner Ryan Quarles. It is co-sponsored by Sen. Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Sen. Rand Paul (R-KY).

The Act would remove hemp from the Controlled Substances Act and reclassify it as an agricultural commodity. It would allow states to control their own hemp regulations by removing federal restrictions and allow researchers to apply for grants through the Department of Agriculture.

In Colorado alone, hemp-based products are expected to generate $1 billion in revenues in 2018 and grow to $1.7 billion by 2020.

Kentucky, McConnell’s home state, is the third largest producer of hemp currently. Oregon is second behind Colorado.

What do you think?

Do you support the removal of hemp from the federal list of controlled substances? Do you think it is a step towards federal legalization of marijuana, or a way for states that have not yet legalized to delay that possible future? What do you see as the benefits or dangers if this legislation is passed?

Tell us in the comments what you think, then use the Take Action button to tell your reps!

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— Asha Sanaker

(Photo Credit: Pixabay / Creative Commons)