“The U.S. hemp industry has had its share of roadblocks, but we continue to push forward and make changes that will help hemp producers thrive,” said Katie Moyer, Owner of Kentucky Hemp Works, in a press release from the Senator’s office. “Senator Paul's HEMP Act has the potential to improve upon the highest priority issues for hemp growers, processors, and labs, while making sure to keep our consumers safe as well. We are grateful for the continued support from our federal delegation and ask that folks at home call their Congressional representatives to ask for their support.”
The press release states that the legislation creates “transparency and certainty” by defining a margin of error in hemp testing, amending the definition of “hemp” from 0.3% THC to 1% THC. It requires testing of hemp-derived products, rather than the hemp flower or plant itself. And to prevent legal hemp from being seized during transport, the bill requires that hemp shipments be accompanied by one of two types of documentation.
Related: U.S. Hemp Roundtable States Opposition to “Legal” Hemp-Derived THC U.S. Hemp Authority Won’t Certify “Hemp” Products Marketed for Intoxication CHPA’s Fireside Chat with Dr. Scott Gottlieb Covers CBD, COVID
“Senator Rand Paul’s legislation is very timely with the state departments of agriculture’s passing policy that would re-define hemp at one percent,” said Patrick Atagi, Chairman of the National Industrial Hemp Council. “We also are thankful for the Senator's recognition of the importance of defining hemp in transit. We appreciate his willingness to engage with us and listen to our industry. We believe the HEMP Act is important for consumers and the consumer’s right to know and are proud to support Senator Paul’s efforts. If passed, the HEMP Act will help with the overall economy and providing jobs to Americans.”“For years, I’ve led the fight in Washington to restore one of Kentucky’s most historically vital crops by legalizing industrial hemp,” Senator Paul concluded. “We achieved a hard-won victory, but there is still work to do to prevent the federal government from weighing down our farmers with unnecessary bureaucratic micromanaging. My legislation will help this growing industry reach its full economic potential, and I am proud the bill has strong support all the way from local Kentucky farmers and activists to national groups.”
The full bill can beread here.
