U.S. Reps. Matt Rosendale (R-MT) and Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) introduced legislation recently that would create a separate classification for industrial hemp and establishing a new regulatory regime for industrial hemp.
The Industrial Hemp Act looks to create a framework that would clear up onerous regulations and allow growers to work more efficiently. It would also include provisions that punish bad actors.
“Industrial hemp is a staple commodity crop for many Montana farmers,” Rosendale said. “Unfortunately, burdensome regulations are preventing hardworking farmers from taking full advantage of this booming agricultural market. The bipartisan Industrial Hemp Act will remove red tape that’s holding the industry back and create good-paying jobs for the people of Montana.”
The lawmakers explained that current regulations governing hemp production are ambiguous and do not separate industrial hemp products from cannabinoid or floral hemp. This creates additional hurdles for growers. This vague regulatory framework makes it difficult for industrial hemp growers to compete with other commodity crops. In addition, they said it creates confusion among banking, transportation, insurance, advertising, and other related industries.
“Hemp is relatively easy to grow, resistant to pests that kill other crops, good for the soil, and is a high-yield product. All of these qualities make it attractive to farmers. It’s used to make a range of goods including biodegradable fibers and biofuels. Unfortunately, today these farmers face regulations that are a little outdated,” Houlahan said. “Chester and Berks Counties are home to dozens of Pennsylvania’s hemp farms, and on their behalf, I’m glad to introduce legislation to modernize regulation of this growing industry.”
The bill also has the support of the Hemp Feed Coalition.
“As a small business owner in Montana trying to create jobs in rural communities and support local farmers, it’s encouraging to see such leadership from Congressman Matt Rosendale,” Morgan Tweet of the Hemp Feed Coalition said. “He understands the constraints the current USDA Hemp program has put on Montana growers and is taking formative steps to make impactful change. Montana elected officials should be applauded for their ability to see past party lines and move collectively forward on initiatives that help their constituents.”