By Associated Press
Frankfort, KY – Kentucky's crop of gubernatorial candidates has mixed feelings about allowing farmers to grow industrial hemp. Democratic Governor Steve Beshear and Republican challenger David Williams want more discussions on the pros and cons. But independent Gatewood Galbraith believes it's been talked about long enough and it's time to lift restrictions. The candidates discussed their feelings about industrial hemp, a cousin to marijuana, in responses to questions from The Associated Press. Kentucky has an ideal climate for hemp production and during World War II was a leading grower of the plant. Hemp produces strong fibers used in fabrics, ropes and other materials for the military. A growing number of Kentucky farmers are calling for restrictions to be lifted.
