Pennsylvania's Department of Agriculture wants to re-open its industrial hemp operation, once a huge industry in the commonwealth.
The PDA has submitted the plan to federal authorities after the U.S. Farm Bill of 2018 deregulated industrial hemp.
"Pennsylvania’s story is shaped by agriculture and the products that help grow the commonwealth, and industrial hemp presents an exciting new chapter in that story,” said Sec. Russell Redding. “The passage and signing of the 2018 Farm Bill, particularly the language removing industrial hemp from regulation under the Controlled Substances Act, and providing for commercial production of industrial hemp, are welcome changes that will benefit both Pennsylvania producers and consumers.”
84 permit applications for growers have been approved in the state and there will not be a cap for 2019.
Hemp was regulated with marijuana after World War II.
Hemp is used in manufacturing applications for things like fiber and seed oils, and does not have psychoactive characteristics like marijuana.
___Follow KDKA Radio: Facebook | Twitter | InstagramListen to KDKA Radio on the Radio.com App - Download Now