House and Senate legislation, HB 271 and SB 554, that sought to redefine industrial hemp as an agricultural crop and establish licensing regulations to allow for the plant’s cultivation died in committee this legislative session.
Hemp is a distinct variety of the plant species cannabis sativa L. that contains minimal amounts of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the primary psychoactive ingredient in marijuana. Various parts of the plant can be utilized in the making of textiles, paper, paints, clothing, plastics, cosmetics, foodstuffs, insulation, animal feed and other products. The crop is commercially cultivated throughout the world.
Members of Congress recently approved language in the omnibus federal Farm Bill explicitly authorizing states to sponsor hemp research absent federal reclassification of the plant. Presently, 24 states have enacted legislation permitting licensed hemp cultivation in a manner that is compliant with this statute.
It is time to allow Florida farmers the opportunity to explore this emerging market.
NORML would like to thank those of you who contacted your lawmakers and urged their support for this legislation.
National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws – Advocacy Campaigns
